Figures & Portraits · 19th century
€ 330
One of a kind: this is the sheet in the photographs. Ships from Langweer, the Netherlands.
Condition report: Very good condition with clean paper and strong coloring. Slight marginal toning and small signs of age outside the image. Blank verso.
Hand-Colored Portrait of Hermengarde, Daughter of Foulques le Rechin, ca. 1900 (after 1827)
Finely hand-colored engraving of Hermengarde (died 1173), daughter of Foulques le Rechin, Count of Anjou. This portrait was issued circa 1900 after the original design published in Paris in 1827 in the celebrated series Galerie Française de Femmes Célèbres, engraved by Georges Jacques Gatine after drawings by Louis-Marie Lanté.
Hermengarde is depicted in a sumptuous red gown trimmed with dark fur, reflecting the high fashion of the French nobility in the 12th century. The rich fabric flows to the ground, while her waist is cinched, emphasizing the elegance of the cut. She holds a book bound in an ornate cover, symbolizing piety and learning. Most striking is her elaborate headdress: a tall hennin with white veils cascading in folds, highlighting the sophistication of aristocratic attire of her era. Jewelry at her neck and ears add further refinement to the ensemble.
The subject, Hermengarde, belonged to the powerful House of Anjou, a dynasty that played a key role in medieval French and European politics. Her image in this series situates her among the most notable women of France, remembered for both noble lineage and historical presence.
The Galerie Française de Femmes Célèbres was originally published in 1827, combining scholarly costume study with artistry, but was republished around 1900 to meet demand among collectors of historical portraiture and costume plates. These later impressions retain the fine hand-coloring and decorative charm, making them desirable for collectors of both costume history and decorative prints.
Condition report: Very good condition with clean paper and strong coloring. Slight marginal toning and small signs of age outside the image. Blank verso.
Framing tips: A gilt frame or dark oak with a cream or pale grey mount will bring out the vibrant red of the gown. A fine black or red inner line in the mat can add depth and echo the costume’s dramatic tones.
Technique: Hand-colored engraving (later impression, ca. 1900)
Maker: After Georges Jacques Gatine (engraver) and Louis-Marie Lanté (artist), original Paris edition 1827
