Figures & Portraits · 19th century
€ 340
One of a kind: this is the sheet in the photographs. Ships from Langweer, the Netherlands.
Very good. General light toning consistent with age. A few minor margin spots, not affecting the image. Strong hand colouring, blank verso.
Demoiselle en Masque, Court Lady of Henri III, handcoloured engraving, ca. 1900
Rare handcoloured engraving depicting a French court lady wearing a black mask during the reign of King Henri III (1551–1589). The lady is dressed in an elaborate black gown with richly embroidered details, upright lace collar, puffed sleeves adorned with striking red and gold accents, and a jewelled belt from which hang ornamental accessories. Her face is completely concealed by a black velvet mask, a striking detail reflecting the masked entertainments and elaborate courtly rituals of the late Renaissance in France.
This engraving is a ca. 1900 reprint after the celebrated series *Galerie Française de Femmes Célèbres*, first published in Paris in 1827. Designed by Louis Marie Lanté and engraved by Georges Jacques Gatine, these plates were based on sources preserved by Roger de Gaignières, the antiquarian whose collection recorded French costume and portraiture from earlier centuries.
The unusual subject of a “Demoiselle en Masque” captures the theatrical and ritualized aspect of Henri III’s court, famous for its elaborate entertainments and distinctive fashions. The contrast between the dark costume, brilliant sleeve ornaments, and the enigmatic mask makes this plate both historically intriguing and visually dramatic, appealing to collectors of costume history, French royal iconography, and decorative prints.
Condition: Very good. General light toning consistent with age. A few minor margin spots, not affecting the image. Strong hand colouring, blank verso.
Framing tips: The print would be strikingly presented in a wide ivory or cream mount with a dark wood or ebony frame to highlight the deep blacks, while a gilt inner line could draw attention to the vivid reds and golds.
Technique: Handcoloured engraving
Maker: Georges Jacques Gatine after Louis Marie Lanté, reprint Paris, ca. 1900
