Views of Europe · 19th century
€ 240
One of a kind: this is the sheet in the photographs. Ships from Langweer, the Netherlands.
General light toning and faint spotting in the margins, not affecting the image. Strong impression and hand colouring. Blank verso.
La Belle Ferronnière, French Renaissance Beauty – Handcoloured Engraving, ca. 1900
Fine handcoloured engraving depicting *La Belle Ferronnière*, a celebrated beauty of the French Renaissance whose identity has long been debated, often linked with Louise de La Béraudière or even with a mistress of King Francis I. She is elegantly portrayed in a flowing crimson gown, trimmed with gold, and a dark headdress covering her hair. A simple pearl necklace and bracelet adorn her, while she delicately holds a feathered fan. The caption notes the date *Année 1539*, situating her in the French court during the reign of Francis I.
This engraving is a ca. 1900 reprint after the series *Galerie Française de Femmes Célèbres*, first issued in Paris in 1827. Created by Louis Marie Lanté (designer) and Georges Jacques Gatine (engraver), the series drew on antiquarian costume sources preserved by Roger de Gaignières, which recorded the portraits and attire of women associated with French history and court life.
*La Belle Ferronnière* remains one of the enduring figures of Renaissance France, her name forever tied to both fashionable headpieces and her appearance in literature and lore. The engraving captures the refinement and mystery surrounding her persona, making it an attractive decorative piece and a valuable addition to collections of French Renaissance prints.
Condition: Good. General light toning and faint spotting in the margins, not affecting the image. Strong impression and hand colouring. Blank verso.
Framing tips: A cream or ivory mount would highlight the deep red of the gown, while a gilt frame would add elegance and resonate with the gold accents. A dark wood frame could also be chosen to emphasize the dramatic contrasts of the costume.
Technique: Handcoloured engraving
Maker: Georges Jacques Gatine after Louis Marie Lanté, reprint Paris, ca. 1900
