Pair of Early 19th-Century French Royal Portrait Engravings of Louis XVIII & Madame Royale, Duchesse d’Angoulême

These exceptional engravings capture two pivotal figures of early 19th-century French royalty during a transformative period in European history. The pair features Louis XVIII, who reigned from 1814 to 1824 following Napoleon's defeat, and his niece, Madame Royale, the Duchesse d'Angoulême (1778–1851), daughter of the executed Louis XVI and Marie Antoinette.

Louis XVIII's restoration marked the Bourbon Restoration, a critical moment when the French monarchy sought to reestablish legitimacy and stability after decades of revolutionary turmoil. His reign witnessed the Congress of Vienna and efforts to restore traditional monarchical authority across Europe. Madame Royale, the sole surviving child of Louis XVI and Marie Antoinette, represented the continuity of the Bourbon line and served as a symbol of royal resilience, having survived imprisonment during the Terror.

These engravings, characteristic of early 19th-century portraiture techniques, would have been created to commemorate and disseminate royal imagery to the educated classes and nobility. The fine line work and formal presentation reflect the sophisticated engraving standards of the period, likely produced in Paris, the center of European printmaking excellence.

Original engravings from this era are increasingly rare, as many were lost or damaged over centuries. This pair represents an authentic artifact of the Restoration period, offering direct visual connection to a crucial moment in French and European political history.

Measurements: 10.5" W x 11" H x 1" D

Notes: 

Antique condition consistent with age. Engravings show gentle toning, light foxing, and scattered age-related discoloration to the paper. Gilt frames exhibit expected surface wear, patina, small losses, and areas of rubbing consistent with age and use. Please review all photographs closely for condition details. Overall, a beautifully preserved antique pair with wonderful character.