French royalty

The Palace of #Versailles is one of the most spectacular examples of the grandeur of 18th-century #French art and architecture. A UNESCO World Heritage site for the last thirty years, this sprawling estate began as Louis XIII's hunting lodge and blossomed into his son's court and center of government in 1682. 📸: @jbperraudin #architecture #architect #architecturelovers #architecturephotography #archilovers #interior #interiordesign

Queen Marie Antoinette and two of her children in the Park of Trianon

He was the last king of France before the fall of the monarchy during the French Revolution.

Ranking of French Nobility before the revolution

No for real, why didn't I learn this in school?

empress alexandra feodorovna, detail — christina robertson

This wax figure Madame du Barry, official mistress of Louis XV, exemplifies the extent of frivolity of dress during the period. She was known for her white skin and palest blonde hair, seen here enhanced by white powders, and was a major trend-setter for her incredible beauty and status. Note the ornate plumage in her hair and the extreme flounces at her sleeves, the edges of which would not have been hemmed as this would hamper the delicate lace but cut in a scallop or Van Dyke pattern.

Crown of King Louis XV (painting detail), France (by 1730; gold, diamonds, rubies, velvet).