The 73-meter gallery was designed on the site of a huge open terrace as a tribute to the successes of France in politics, economics and art. 30 paintings on the vaulted ceiling are devoted to political triumphs, depicting the glorious history of the reign of Louis XIV from 1661 to the peace talks in Nijmegen. Military and diplomatic victorias illustrate antique sculptures. Economic prosperity is symbolized by 357 mirrors that adorn 17 arches opposite the same window shape. A success in art is expressed in the widespread use of images of lilies (a symbol of the monarchy), roosters (the talisman of France) and the sun (sign of Louis XIV).

In 1871, the German Empire was proclaimed here, and in 1919 a peace treaty was signed, ending the First World War.