The Imperial Sentinel

. . . is another painting in the series inspired by Ludwig II of Bavaria. In fact this was the second piece created and represents the Moorish Kiosk at Linderhof Castle in Bavaria. Inside the kiosk is the only throne that Ludwig II ever owned - the peacock throne - a beautiful seat flanked by brass peacocks and feathers, designed specifically for the room which itself resembled a Moroccan lantern.

Peacocks were another of Ludwig's symbolic birds; full of regal exoticism and flamboyancy. In this piece he is perched on an urn of peonies, guarding the king whilst he is in residence. Peonies are known as the king of flowers, and the peacock has disturbed them, spilling petals - symbolising Ludwig's troubled reign in Bavaria.

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