The Life and Legacy of King Henry II
Henry II, initially known as Duke d’Orleans, took the French throne in 1547 and ruled until his premature death in 1559. A prominent member of the esteemed House of Valois, he was recognized for his administrative skills and strong resistance to Protestantism. Following in the footsteps of his father, Francis I, he was a dedicated supporter of the arts and Renaissance culture.
A King with Diverse Interests
Henry II’s rule was characterized by significant architectural endeavors, such as the ongoing reconstruction of the Louvre and the establishment of the Chateau d’Anet. An admirer of literature and poetry, the king was famous for his excellent fashion sense. Although he was married to Catherine de’ Medici, with whom he fathered ten children, including three future kings, his affections were devoted to Diane de Poitiers, a striking aristocrat twenty years his senior.
The Parade Armor: A Symbol of Regal Grandeur
Craftsmanship Designed for Royalty
Among Henry II’s treasured belongings was his Parade Armor, currently exhibited at the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York. Crafted between 1553 and 1555, this exquisite piece was elaborately decorated by Etienne Delaune, a talented French goldsmith and engraver influenced by the Little Masters of Germany.
Symbolism and Craftsmanship
The armor functioned as a ceremonial outfit, with its breastplate and back adorned with scenes that celebrated the king’s military victories. Embellished with both human and mythical figures, the armor highlights remarkable artistry:
The breastplate illustrates a Roman warrior receiving tribute from kneeling women
Apollo pursuing Daphne is depicted on the shoulders
The back showcases Apollo vanquishing the monster Python
Henry’s crescent moon emblem is featured throughout the design
A Historical Gem
Regarded as one of France’s most ornate armors, this piece is accompanied by around 20 sketches thought to be Delaune’s original designs. Its intricate features and historical importance render it a genuine Renaissance masterpiece.
A Tragic Conclusion
Ironically, Henry II’s life ended abruptly due to a jousting mishap in 1559. A splinter from a shattered lance pierced his eye, resulting in a fatal case of septicemia. The specific armor he wore during that tragic incident remains unknown, leaving his splendid Parade Armor as a lasting symbol of his reign and the artistic achievements of 16th-century France.
