Marie-Antoinette

Marie-Antoinette (1755–1793) continues to captivate historians, writers, and filmmakers more than two centuries after her death. Once a symbol of the extravagant French aristocracy, her life and tragic end played a significant role in the eventual collapse of the monarchy. Her material wealth, glamorous role as a fashion icon, and patronage of the arts, juxtaposed with her execution, continue to capture the public imagination.

This beautifully illustrated volume provides a fresh and nuanced perspective on Marie-Antoinette's storied life through the objects and locations that shaped her world. It chronicles her journey from her upbringing in Vienna as the archduchess of Austria to her rise to the French throne and her execution by the revolutionary tribunal. The book features exquisite depictions of the lavish items that filled her life—such as her elegant gowns, gilded furniture, chinoiserie porcelains, and luxurious tableware—as well as personal possessions that reflect her private life, including her sewing kit, harp, children's toys, and even the simple cotton chemise she wore as a prisoner. The narrative is enriched with excerpts from her correspondence, offering insights into her character and daily experiences.

Visually stunning and engaging, *Marie-Antoinette* provides a captivating exploration of the complex life of France’s last, ill-fated queen.