The Battle of Bouvines (1214)
Horace Vernet · Domaine public
This painting depicts the Battle of Bouvines, won on July 27, 1214, by King Philip II of France (Philip Augustus). Facing a coalition that included King John of England and Emperor Otto IV, Philip achieved a decisive victory. This success greatly strengthened royal authority, consolidated the Capetian dynasty, and weakened rival powers. Bouvines became a symbol of the unity of the Kingdom of France and the rising strength of the monarchy.