Hand-Colored Portrait of Laure de Noves, “La Belle Laure” (after 1827, ca. 1900 edition)
Finely hand-colored engraving depicting Laure de Noves (1310–1348), famously celebrated as “La Belle Laure.” She was the muse and inspiration of the Italian poet Francesco Petrarca (Petrarch), whose sonnets immortalized her beauty and character, making her one of the most iconic figures of European literary history.
The engraving presents Laure in a richly patterned gown of green and blue with ermine-like motifs, tied with a sash, over a dark underdress. Her attire reflects the elegance and refinement associated with the French courtly tradition of the early 14th century. She holds a scroll in her hands, symbolizing her connection to Petrarch’s poetry and her enduring role in Renaissance literary culture. A finely netted headdress frames her face, while a jeweled necklace emphasizes her noble status.
This portrait belongs to the *Galerie Française de Femmes Célèbres*, a celebrated series first issued in Paris in 1827, designed by Louis-Marie Lanté and engraved by Georges Jacques Gatine. The present example is from the ca. 1900 reissue, when the original copperplates were republished and hand-colored anew for collectors and connoisseurs.
Condition report: Very good. Strong and fresh hand-coloring, particularly in the blue-green patterned gown, with wide margins and clean sheet. Minor age toning at the paper edges, blank verso.
Framing tips: A cream or light ivory mat will highlight the delicacy of the hand-coloring. Double matting with a thin blue or green line would echo the tones of Laure’s gown. A gilt frame enhances its literary and courtly resonance, while dark wood lends it a refined scholarly presence.
Technique: Hand-colored engraving (later impression, ca. 1900) Maker: After Louis-Marie Lanté (artist) and Georges Jacques Gatine (engraver), Paris, 1827
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