Tag Archives: King Louis XVI

Arnaud Vincent de Montpetit was an esteemed portrait miniature artist, born and raised in the serene countryside of France. Montpetit worked in both Bourg-en-Bresse and Paris. As his reputation grew he caught the attention of Royalty and the aristocracy. He is known for evolving various processes such as Eludoric painting. The method of painting oils on fabric under a film of water and fixing the miniature inside the glass. Arnaud Vincent de Montpetit signed his work ‘Montpetit’. History of Portrait Miniatures Portrait miniatures first appeared in the 16th century in the European royal courts. However, much later in the 18th century their popularity grew amongst the wealthy and royal.  They provide an insight into the window of customs, fashions and the intimate lives of the subjects. They can be inscribed with thoughtful messages on the reverse. Often set in precious metal and decorated with various gemstones from diamonds to paste. Intimate objects were often gifted to loved ones to demonstrate their loyalty or affection. Often sought after by soldiers who wanted to leave their likeness for their sweetheart or loved ones to cherish. Artists who created these miniatures were usually masters of their craft. They were able to capture the finest details on a very small canvas. Fellows are delighted to offer an 18th-century portrait miniature depicting King Louis XVI of France, signed Montpetit. Set in an 18ct gold and enamel surround in our upcoming Fine Jewellery auction. Not only does this subject offer an interesting history, but the miniature is accompanied with a fitted case. The front of the case displays the arms of Charles Ferdinand D’Artois, the Duke of Berry. King Louis XVI Louis XVI’s reign was from 1774 until his death in 1792. His reign was to host significant events, noticeably the French Revolution. Portrait Miniatures of Monarchs are not just personal tokens, they are pieces of history through the eyes of the artist. This allows us to see more intimate and personal lives of the crown. Louis XVI had a turbulent time on the throne. This was due to France’s involvement in the American Revolution war, along with a financial crisis. There were several attempts at reform in the country, but unfortunately, the crown struggled to achieve any meaningful change.  1789 was the beginning of the French Revolution, the revolutionary forces demanded radical shifts.  The King was accused of inciting an invasion of France by other European countries. This was an attempt to end the revolution to help him reclaim his control and power. Despite his defence and statements of innocence, the King was found guilty of high treason and was sentenced to death by Guillotine on January 21, 1793. Duke of Berry The Duke of Berry, Charles Ferdinand, was a member of the French royal family, born on January 24, 1778. He was the third son of the future King Charles X of France and his wife, Princess Maria Theresa of Savoy. As a member of the Bourbon dynasty, he was a grandson of King Louis, Dauphin of France, and thus, a nephew of King Louis XVI. After the overthrow of the Monarchy in France, he lived in exile for much of his life. With the Fall of Napoleon, he returned to France with his Family. His wife Princess Maria-Carolie of Naples and Sicily was known for her strong personality and royalist beliefs. The couple had two children together. Louise, who died in infancy, and Henri, Duke of Bordeaux, who later became known as Henry V. Tragically, The Duke’s life was cut short when he was assassinated by a lone gunman named Louis Pierre Louvel on February 13, 1820, while leaving the Paris Opera with his wife. Arnaud Vincent de Montpetit at Auction Lot 763 Portrait miniature of Louis XVI, signed Montpetit. Price Realised: £2,080.00 Fine Jewellery | Thursday 21st March 2024 Viewing times (ID required): London Monday 11th March 10:00-19:00 Tuesday 12th March 09:30-11:30 Birmingham Tuesday 19th March 10:00-16:00 Wednesday 20th March 10:00-16:00 Thursday 21st March 8:30-09:00 Virtual viewings are available by request. Virtual viewings are the ultimate personal shopping experience. Using Zoom, you can ask us whatever you need to know in order to buy with confidence. Find out more here. Valuations Our valuations are free, with no obligation to sell with us. Our experts will value your item with an estimate, so you can find out what it could achieve at auction. The process is simple. You can fill in a form online or book an appointment to visit either of our offices in Birmingham or London. Virtual valuation appointments are also available. 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