Queen Claude of France – Hand-Colored Historical Portrait Engraving, c.1900

About this sheet

Hand-Colored Engraving of Queen Claude of France, ca. 1900 edition

This elegant hand-colored engraving portrays Claude of France (1499–1524), known as La Reine Claude, the first wife of François I. As queen consort of France from 1515 until her early death in 1524, she gave her name to the celebrated French plum variety, the “Reine Claude.” Though her reign was brief, she became a beloved figure in French history, remembered for her piety, modesty, and dedication to her role at court.

The engraving shows Claude in a richly detailed gown of black and white, accentuated with lavish gold embroidery and a sumptuous fur-trimmed mantle. A jeweled belt and necklace underline her royal status, while her composed gesture conveys grace and dignity. The costume reflects early 16th-century French court fashion, characterized by voluminous skirts, fur lining, and gem-encrusted ornamentation.

This image comes from the important series Galerie Française de Femmes Célèbres (Paris, 1827), drawn by Louis-Marie Lanté and engraved by Georges Jacques Gatine. The present example is a ca. 1900 reissue, when the series was republished to satisfy the growing late 19th–early 20th century fascination with historic costume and portraiture.

Condition report: Excellent preservation with vivid hand-coloring and clear impression. Light toning consistent with age, wide margins, and a visible platemark. Blank verso.

Framing tips: A gilt frame with a cream mount would bring out the richness of the gold details and fur textures. Alternatively, a dark wood frame with double matting—cream with a thin burgundy inner line—would emphasize the depth of the black gown and highlight the elegance of this regal portrait.

Technique: Hand-colored engraving (later impression, ca. 1900)
Maker: After Louis-Marie Lanté (artist) and Georges Jacques Gatine (engraver), Paris, 1827