Science Museum reveals hidden innovations behind Versailles' facade

In the 17th century, during the reign of King Louis XIV of France, a notable event occurred within the opulent confines of Versailles: the king underwent a surgical procedure for an anal fistula. This marked a significant moment in the history of medicine as it was a time when modern surgery was still in its infancy. Louis XIV, aware of the risks, ultimately consented to the operation performed by royal surgeon Charles-François Félix. To prepare for this delicate procedure, Félix ingeniously developed a new surgical instrument, a curved silver scalpel, which he first tested on impoverished individuals in the vicinity, albeit with tragic results, as some did not survive his initial experiments. Despite the brutal nature of his practice, Félix eventually succeeded in treating the king's ailment, allowing Louis XIV to continue his remarkable reign until his death in 1715, thereby achieving a world record of 72 years on the throne. Beyond the immediate medical success, the events at Versailles during this period reveal the broader context of scientific advancement and innovation occurring alongside the lavish lifestyle of the French monarchy. Surrounded by luxurious art and architecture, members of the royal family and the court pursued intellectual enlightenment. Portraits of Louis XV's daughters, for instance, depict them engaged in scholarly pursuits, surrounded by books, challenging the notion that their lives revolved solely around opulence and leisure. This drive for knowledge extended to fields such as medicine, with significant advances being made in obstetrics as well, exemplified by Madame du Coudray's obstetric machines designed for educational purposes. The royal court also demonstrated a commitment to medical progress through the promotion of inoculation, a practice that gained traction in France despite resistance from some sectors of society. By embracing these scientific endeavors, the monarchy aimed to position itself as a progressive leader in public health. The engineering feats at Versailles, such as the Marly Machine, showcased not only the grandeur of the gardens but also the technical ingenuity of the era. Despite its inefficiencies, the Marly Machine was celebrated as a marvel of science, embodying the intertwining of functionality and artistry in the royal domain. In this light, the exhibition at the Science Museum in London serves as a reminder that Versailles was not merely a stage for luxury but also a crucible of scientific inquiry and innovation. Various exhibits prominently feature examples of these advancements, including the curved scalpel used by Félix and models of obstetric machines. They highlight the dual narrative of the palace, where elaborate displays of wealth coexisted with groundbreaking medical and scientific pursuits, challenging contemporary views on the role of monarchy in advancing human knowledge. As visitors explore this history, they gain insight into the complex legacy of Versailles, where the pursuit of knowledge and the spectacle of wealth created a unique cultural and intellectual environment.