Portrait of Philip II Augustus

This portrait depicts Philip II of France, known as Philip Augustus, who reigned from 1180 to 1223. His reign marks a major turning point in the history of the kingdom, with a decisive strengthening of royal authority. He confronted and weakened the kings of England, notably John Lackland, and won the famous Battle of Bouvines in 1214. Philip Augustus significantly expanded the royal domain and laid the foundations for a more centralized and powerful state. This portrait represents one of the most important rulers of the Capetian dynasty.