The year 1664: the founding of the Kronenbourg Brewery, the imprisonment of Nicolas Fouquet, the first celebration at Versailles showcasing the Sun King’s absolute power, and Colbert’s establishment of the Compagnie des Indes, which imported coffee, rum, and opium. From flamboyant celebrations at the dawn of colonialism to excessive artistic creation and academic standardization, from intoxication to submission: this year was the scene of an aesthetic and political upheaval whose legacy France still bears today.
In this spectacular lecture, actress and art historian Hortense Belhôte explores this historic shift and revives the Baroque spirit of the 17th century.

As part of the Festival d’Automne at the university.
The Hermès Corporate Foundation supports university tours.