Figure 1.--We believe that the most accurate depictions were done by the Queen's favorite artist, Madame Vigée Le Brun. Paintings done before the Revolution are almost certainly the most accurate because after the 1789 Revolution, the imagery of royalty often took on great political significance. The Vigée Le Brun porttaits probably give a much better idea of how he was dressed and the circumstances of his life than any other avilable images.

Louis-Charles was born in 1785 at Versailles. He was the titular King of France from 1793. Second son of Louis XVI and Marie Antoinette, he became Dauphin (heir to the throne) on the death of his older brother, Louis-Joseph. He was raised in royal splendor for the first 4 years of his life. He was described as healthy, alert, and clever. Then came the Revolution. There were many portraits done of Queen Marie Antonitte, less of her children. We believe that the most accurate depictions were done by the Queen's favorite artist, Madame Vigée Le Brun. Paintings done before the Revolution are almost certainly the most accurate because after the 1789 Revolution, the imagery of royalty often took on great political significance. The Vigée Le Brun porttaits probably give a much better idea of how he was dressed and the circumstances of his life than any other available images. The image seen here is a charming, informal study in black and red chalk and graphite. As in other images, the Prince wears a blouse with an open ruffled collar, probably worn with a long pants skeleton suit.

Created: April 17, 2003
Last updated: April 17, 2003