Architecture & Design · 19th century
€ 280
One of a kind: this is the sheet in the photographs. Ships from Langweer, the Netherlands.
Very good. Light toning consistent with age, minor edge wear, and faint spots in the margin not affecting the image. Strong impression and well-preserved hand colouring. Blank verso.
Françoise de Foix, Countess of Châteaubriant – Handcoloured Engraving, ca. 1900
Fine handcoloured engraving of Françoise de Foix (c.1495–1537), Countess of Châteaubriant and mistress of King Francis I of France. She is shown in a stately black gown of rich brocade fabric, adorned with lace at the collar and cuffs, and a jewelled pendant necklace. Her headdress and pearl ornaments complement her refined appearance. In her hand she holds a small book, symbolizing both piety and learning, themes often emphasized in portraits of noblewomen.
The caption identifies her as Françoise de Foix, Comtesse de Châteaubriant, née vers l’an 1495, morte le 16 octobre 1537. A noted beauty of the French Renaissance, she became the king’s mistress in the early 16th century, later retiring to her estates where she lived out her final years.
This engraving is a ca. 1900 reprint from the Galerie Française de Femmes Célèbres, first published in Paris in 1827. Designed by Louis Marie Lanté and engraved by Georges Jacques Gatine, the series was based on costume research and portrait sources collected by Roger de Gaignières, an antiquarian who preserved important visual records of French nobility.
The print offers both historical resonance and decorative appeal, reflecting the elegance of French Renaissance dress and the prominence of Françoise de Foix at court.
Condition: Very good. Light toning consistent with age, minor edge wear, and faint spots in the margin not affecting the image. Strong impression and well-preserved hand colouring. Blank verso.
Framing tips: A wide ivory or cream mount would accentuate the lacework and pale highlights, while a gilt or dark wood frame would add depth to the somber black attire. A subtle inner gold line could echo the pendant and enrich the presentation.
Technique: Handcoloured engraving
Maker: Georges Jacques Gatine after Louis Marie Lanté, reprint Paris, ca. 1900
