About this sheet
A beautifully hand-colored French lithograph depicting an elegantly dressed gentleman and lady in ceremonial attire from the First French Empire, representing the year 1807.
The composition is enclosed within an imposing neoclassical architectural portal adorned with winged sphinxes, cherubs, classical urns, Greek key ornament, and richly sculpted decorative motifs. The gentleman is portrayed in a magnificent ceremonial court uniform trimmed with ermine, richly embroidered with gold braid, wearing a plumed bicorne and carrying an elaborate ceremonial hat. The lady wears an elegant white Empire-style gown embellished with delicate floral decoration, blue sash, jeweled tiara, and refined accessories, reflecting the sophisticated fashions of the Napoleonic court.
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 famous historical costume balls held at the Paris Opéra during the mid-19th century. These finely hand-colored lithographs are admired for their historical costume studies, elaborate decorative engraving, and outstanding French lithographic craftsmanship.
The richly detailed ceremonial costume, elegant Empire fashions, and impressive neoclassical border make this an outstanding decorative print for collectors of Napoleonic history, French 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: First French Empire, 1807
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: First French Empire, Napoleonic Empire, Empire style, Napoleon I, French Empire fashion, 1807 costume, ceremonial court dress, historical costume, 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, Napoleonic costume, decorative wall art, French history
