Which country was the epitome of absolutism?

France is often considered the epitome of absolutism, particularly under the rule of King Louis XIV in the 17th century. He centralized power in the monarchy, famously declaring, "L'état, c'est moi" ("I am the state"), and enforced strict control over the nobility and governance. His reign exemplified the principles of absolute monarchy, characterized by the concentration of power in the hands of the king and the diminishing influence of the feudal aristocracy.