Antique 1900 French Versailles Engraving Louis XIV La Valliere Gilt Frame For Sale

Antique French Versailles Engraving, Circa 1899–1900 — Louis XIV, Louise de La Vallière & The Pleasures of the Enchanted Isle — Presented in an Ornate Antique Victorian Giltwood FrameA beautifully detailed antique French engraving depicting one of the most extravagant celebrations in the history of Versailles, elegantly presented in a substantial antique Victorian giltwood and gesso frame.Dating to approximately 1899–1900, this historic engraving illustrates the second day of Les Plaisirs de l’Île enchantée (The Pleasures of the Enchanted Isle), a magnificent series of royal festivities hosted by King Louis XIV at the Palace of Versailles in May 1664.Historical SignificanceIn May 1664, Louis XIV organized an extraordinary celebration at Versailles featuring elaborate theatrical performances, ballet, music, feasting, and entertainments for the French royal court.The engraving depicts the temporary outdoor theater constructed for the performance of La Princesse d’Élide, a comedy-ballet written by the celebrated French playwright Molière, with music by Jean-Baptiste Lully.The detailed composition captures the theatrical stage, elaborately costumed performers, formal gardens, suspended chandeliers, and assembled aristocratic spectators.At the lower right is an exquisite oval portrait of Louise de La Vallière (1644–1710), one of Louis XIV’s most famous royal mistresses. Her portrait is surrounded by an elaborate decorative cartouche featuring cherubs, floral ornamentation, and scrolling foliage.The festivities have long been associated with La Vallière, making her inclusion particularly meaningful.Artist, Publication & ProvenanceThis engraving was produced circa 1899–1900 for the monumental illustrated publication Versailles et les deux Trianons, written by Philippe Gille and produced under the artistic and architectural direction of Marcel Lambert (1847–1928), chief architect of Versailles and the Trianons.The composition is based upon a 17th-century engraving associated with Israël Silvestre (1621–1691), celebrated for his detailed depictions of royal architecture, gardens, and festivities during the reign of Louis XIV.The later engraving is attributed to French artist and engraver Charles Théodore Deblois (1851–early 20th century).Visible inscriptions include:* “C. T. Deblois del. & sc.”
* “Marcel Lambert inv. & direx.”
* “Imp. Ch. Wittmann”The engraving is identifiable as Plate 13 from Versailles et les deux Trianons, a lavishly illustrated historical and architectural study of the palace.Antique Victorian Giltwood FrameThe engraving has been beautifully paired with an ornate antique Victorian-style giltwood and gesso frame featuring richly molded floral scrollwork, decorative borders, and an attractive aged gold finish.The substantial frame beautifully complements the historical subject matter and elaborate portrait cartouche.Presented against a dark background, the engraving retains its original cream-colored paper margins and French inscriptions, creating a striking contrast with the richly ornamented gilt frame.The result is a sophisticated decorative piece particularly suited to traditional, French-inspired, maximalist, or collected interiors.Details* Title: Seconde Journée — Théâtre fait dans la même allée sur lequel la Comédie et le Ballet de la Princesse d’Élide furent représentés
* Origin: France
* Date: Circa 1899–1900
* Medium: Antique engraving/etching on paper
* Engraver: Charles Théodore Deblois
* After: Israël Silvestre
* Publication: Versailles et les deux Trianons
* Subject: Louis XIV, Louise de La Vallière, Palace of Versailles, French royal festivities
* Frame: Ornate antique Victorian giltwood and gesso frame
* Engraving sheet: Approximately 14 × 20 inches
* Frame: Approximately 20 × 24 inches (please confirm overall dimensions)ConditionThe antique engraving displays age-related toning, scattered foxing, and minor marks consistent with its age. The engraved image remains beautifully detailed and legible.The antique frame displays an attractive aged gilt finish with expected surface wear and minor imperfections consistent with age.Please examine all photographs carefully, as they form an important part of the condition description.A Remarkable Piece of French HistoryCombining the splendor of Versailles, the theatrical legacy of Molière, the romantic intrigue of Louis XIV’s court, and the craftsmanship of late-19th-century French engraving, this is a particularly appealing historical and decorative work.An elegant addition to a gallery wall, library, study, drawing room, or collection of antique French art and historical prints.The antique engraving and frame are sold together as pictured.