Yolande-Gabrielle-Martine de Polastron, the wife of Count Jules de Polignac, met Marie-Antoinette at Versailles during the year 1775. The Queen struck up a close friendship with her and chose her to be her new confident and favourite, roles that until then had been held by the Princess de Lamballe. This position brought Mme de Polignac and her family extraordinary privileges. In 1782, the year of her portrait by Élisabeth Vigée-Lebrun, she obtained the title of Duchess and was named governess to the royal children. Those who knew her spoke of her charm and gentleness and her cheerful nature.

These features seem to emanate from this famous painting that was behind Vigée-Le Brun’s acceptance into the Académie.

Notepad
56 pages
Cover with flap
Dimensions:  H. 92,2 x l. 73,3 cm