5.4.2. "FAVORITES"

ROYAL MISTRESSES, ANOTHER SOURCE OF IMMENSE EXPENSE, ADDED TO THE ECLAT OF THE COURT

The political importance of this institution parallel to that of the queen is described here. 

Standing out:

• Diane de Poitiers (1536-1559) was fundamental to the court of Henri II from his accession to his death.

Diane de Poitiers, lady of Brézé and Duchess of Valentinois / anonymous after a sketch by Jean Clouet / zoom

Chenonceau, rebuilt toward 1620 / zoom

Among the king's gifts, use of the château of Chenonceau. Diane inspired and financed the bridge.

• The marquise de Montespan, 1667-1678

Mme de Montespan in her chateau of Clagny by Henri Gascar, end 1670's / zoom

 

Superb, cultivated and caustique, of a lineage superior to that of the king, she dominated the court at its most brilliant time. Associating with a witch led to her disgrace: that story here.     

.

Perspective of Clagny chateau, print by Antoine Aveline, no date / zoom

"It's barely worthy of an opera girl," said the Marquise of a first chateau the king offered. He had it torn down and built this one.

• Marquise de Pompadour

Portrait of Madame de Pompidou, anonymous, no date  / zoom

Aspects of culture surround her.

.Zoom

The royal Manufactory of Sèvres, due to her.

*      *

The favorites' luxury encouraged the arts. 

That too destroyed surplus,

   while promoting kingship.    

 *     *     *

  

Next,

5.4.3.

Creation, destruction, replacement