These two gentlemen are both well-known to history: Louis XVI to the left and Benjamin Franklin to the right. The French King is seen having put his signature on the treaty between France and the colony America from 1778. The porcelain figure was made between 1780-1785 in Lorraine. The artist is Charles-Gabriel Sauvage dit Lemire. Notice that the difference in rank is made very clear: the King is elevated not only in posture but also by being placed on a platform whereas the diplomat is bowing and standing on the ground. Also, the King is wearing an armour which is a direct reference to the militaristic support promised - and given - by the French.
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