Young Lady of the Time of Francis I – Handcoloured Engraving, ca. 1900
Delicate handcoloured engraving of a French young lady from the reign of King Francis I (1494–1547). She is elegantly dressed in a violet gown with long flowing skirts and wide sleeves, draped with a dark mantle lined in pale blue. Her attire is completed with a pearl belt and a French hood adorned with jewels. She holds a fan made of peacock feathers in one hand and a lace handkerchief in the other, accessories that underline her refined social status.
The caption reads: Jeune Personne du Temps de François Ier, placing her in the early 16th century, an era famous for its flourishing Renaissance culture, courtly elegance, and distinctive French fashions.
This engraving is a ca. 1900 reprint after the celebrated series Galerie Française de Femmes Célèbres, first published in Paris in 1827. Designed by Louis Marie Lanté and engraved by Georges Jacques Gatine, the series drew from antiquarian costume sources collected by Roger de Gaignières, who meticulously documented noble and courtly attire.
The graceful stance, soft hand colouring, and luxurious depiction of fabric make this an appealing print both as a decorative piece and as a valuable costume reference.
Condition: Very good. Light toning and faint spotting in margins, not affecting the image. Strong impression with well-preserved hand colouring. Blank verso.
Framing tips: A wide cream mount will emphasize the delicacy of the fan and lace details, while a gilt frame will highlight the violet gown. A dark wood frame could also provide a dramatic contrast, bringing out the richness of the Renaissance style.
Technique: Handcoloured engraving Maker: Georges Jacques Gatine after Louis Marie Lanté, reprint Paris, ca. 1900
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