About this sheet
A beautifully hand-colored French lithograph depicting an elegant court couple from the reign of King Louis XVI, representing the year 1775.
The composition is framed by an elaborate Rococo cartouche featuring scrolling acanthus, floral garlands, ribbons, shellwork, decorative cartouches, and a heraldic crest surmounted by an eagle. The gentleman is shown in an embroidered 18th-century court suit with sword and tricorne hat, while the lady wears an opulent pannier gown with lace trim, floral decoration, an elaborate powdered coiffure, and carries a folding fan. Together they embody the refined elegance of the French royal court during the early years of Louis XVI's reign.
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 created for the lavish historical costume balls held at the Paris Opéra and remains one of the finest examples of French Romantic costume lithography.
The combination of exquisite hand coloring, elaborate Rococo ornament, and historical costume makes this an outstanding decorative print for collectors of French history, fashion, theatre, 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: Reign of Louis XVI, 1775
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 XVI, French Rococo, Rococo court costume, French royal court, Ancien Régime, 18th century fashion, French costume, 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, decorative wall art, French history, Rococo décor
