Pamono After Louis Marie Lanté, Diane De Poitiers, Mistress of Henri II, Handcoloured Engraving, 1900> Prints & Multiples

Diane de Poitiers, Mistress of Henri II – Handcoloured Engraving, ca. 1900 Beautiful handcoloured engraving of Diane de Poitiers (1499–1566), the celebrated mistress of King Henri II of France and one of the most influential women of the French Renaissance. She is depicted in an opulent gown of crimson-pink trimmed with ermine, a richly decorated underskirt with gold embroidery, and puffed sleeves adorned with jewels. A pearl bracelet and jewelled headband complete her sumptuous attire, while she delicately holds a lace handkerchief. The caption notes: Diane de Poitiers, née en 1499, morte en 1566. Diane was renowned for her beauty, intelligence, and political influence. She remained a central figure at the French court, wielding considerable power during Henri II’s reign, and was immortalized in art and poetry as a symbol of grace and authority. This engraving is a ca. 1900 reprint after the celebrated series Galerie Française de Femmes Célèbres, first published in Paris in 1827. Designed by Louis Marie Lanté and engraved by Georges Jacques Gatine, the series drew on antiquarian research by Roger de Gaignières, who documented noble and royal portraiture. The vivid hand colouring, detailed costume, and historical subject make this a striking and highly decorative print, appealing to collectors of French Renaissance history, costume prints, and portrait engravings. Condition: Very good. General light toning and minor margin wear, not affecting the image. Strong hand colouring and clear impression. Blank verso. Framing tips: A cream or ivory mount will highlight the ermine trim and white underskirt, while a gilt frame will enhance the richness of the crimson gown. For contrast, a dark wood frame could add a sense of gravitas befitting the subject. Technique: Handcoloured engraving Maker: Georges Jacques Gatine after Louis Marie Lanté, reprint Paris, ca. 1900