About this sheet
A beautifully hand-colored French lithograph depicting an elegantly dressed gentleman and lady in fashionable attire from the French Directoire period, representing the year 1794.
The figures are presented beneath an elaborate neoclassical architectural portal adorned with winged sphinxes, cherubs, classical urns, Greek key ornament, and sculptural decorative elements inspired by the Louis XVI style. The gentleman wears a fashionable dark blue overcoat with embroidered waistcoat, breeches, stockings, and a bicorne-style hat, while the lady is dressed in an elegant high-waisted gown with a striking oversized bonnet and coordinating blue shawl. Their attire reflects the transition from the extravagance of the Ancien Régime to the more restrained fashions that emerged during the French Revolution.
Published in Paris by Rittner & Goupil, this print belongs to the celebrated Costumes du Quadrille Historique – Bals de l'Opéra series. Designed by Achille Devéria with ornamental borders by J.J. Grandville, the series was produced for the celebrated historical costume balls held at the Paris Opéra. These hand-colored lithographs are admired for their historical costume studies, refined decorative engraving, and exceptional French lithographic craftsmanship.
The elegant figures, richly engraved architectural border, and original hand coloring make this an outstanding decorative print for collectors of French history, Revolutionary-era fashion, theatre, opera, and European decorative arts.
Maker: Rittner & Goupil, Paris
Artists: Achille Devéria; ornamental border by J.J. Grandville
Series: Costumes du Quadrille Historique – Bals de l'Opéra
Published: Circa 1847
Depicted Period: French Directoire Period, 1794
Technique: Hand-colored lithograph on wove paper
Condition: Good antique condition with age-related toning, scattered light foxing, and minor handling wear, as visible in the photographs. The original hand coloring remains bright and attractive. Please study the photographs carefully.
The print is sold unframed. Any framed images are shown for presentation purposes only.
Keywords: French Directoire, Directoire fashion, French Revolution, 1794 costume, Revolutionary France, neoclassical costume, historical fashion, antique fashion print, hand-colored lithograph, Achille Devéria, J.J. Grandville, Charles Motte, Rittner & Goupil, Costumes du Quadrille Historique, Bals de l'Opéra, Paris lithograph, antique French print, decorative wall art, French history
