About this sheet
A beautifully hand-colored French lithograph depicting King Louis XV of France and a noble lady in magnificent Rococo court dress, representing the year 1775. The female figure closely resembles the fashionable style associated with Madame de Pompadour, although the plate itself does not identify her by name.
The elegant couple is framed by an exceptionally elaborate Rococo cartouche featuring scrolling acanthus, floral garlands, ribbons, shellwork, cartouches, and a crowned royal coat of arms surmounted by an eagle. The finely engraved border is among the most decorative designs in the celebrated series.
The gentleman is shown in a richly embroidered court suit with sash, sword, and tricorne hat, while the lady wears an extravagant pannier gown adorned with floral garlands, lace, a feathered coiffure, and carries a painted folding fan. Together they perfectly capture the luxury and refinement of the French court during the reign of Louis XV.
Published in Paris by Rittner & Goupil, this print belongs to the celebrated series Costumes du Quadrille Historique – Bals de l'Opéra. Designed by Achille Devéria with ornamental borders by Grandville and lithographed by Charles Motte, the series was produced during the 1830s–1840s for the fashionable historical costume balls held at the Paris Opéra. Today these hand-colored lithographs are prized for their historical charm, decorative quality, and superb French lithographic craftsmanship.
Maker: Rittner & Goupil, Paris
Artists: Achille Devéria & J.J. Grandville
Series: Costumes du Quadrille Historique – Bals de l'Opéra
Date: Circa 1847
Technique: Hand-colored lithograph on wove paper
Condition: Fair antique condition with age-related toning, scattered foxing, light creasing, and a small loss to the lower left corner, as visible in the photographs. The original hand coloring remains bright and attractive. The condition has been reflected in the asking price. Please study the photographs carefully.
The print is sold unframed. Any framed images are shown for presentation purposes only.
Keywords: Louis XV, Madame de Pompadour, French Rococo, Rococo costume, French royal court, Ancien Régime, Bourbon dynasty, 18th century fashion, historical costume, court fashion, hand-colored lithograph, Achille Devéria, Grandville, Rittner & Goupil, Costumes du Quadrille Historique, Bals de l'Opéra, Paris costume print, decorative antique print, French history, Rococo décor
