Between 1551 and 1589, King Henri III of France steered his realm through dynastic upheaval, religious civil wars, and an audacious court culture that earned him a reputation as one of early modern Europe’s most controversial, and in hindsight proto-queer, rulers.
Having immersed myself in the fantastic mini series “Versailles” I am immediately drawn to the parallels of court intrigue and dramatic costume, particularly surrounding the fate of the Valois name and St. Cloud, later inherited by Philippe duc d’Orleans / duc d’Anjou, brother to Louis XIV. For anyone who has watched the series, you will know Alexander Vlahos’ portrayal of Philippe is not only spectacular, but one could see him easily playing Henry III as progenitor of such court practices.
Fabulous read, capturing the imagery and enticing me to read more on this ‘failed king’ whose imprint remained ever after on the trends of the French court.
Having immersed myself in the fantastic mini series “Versailles” I am immediately drawn to the parallels of court intrigue and dramatic costume, particularly surrounding the fate of the Valois name and St. Cloud, later inherited by Philippe duc d’Orleans / duc d’Anjou, brother to Louis XIV. For anyone who has watched the series, you will know Alexander Vlahos’ portrayal of Philippe is not only spectacular, but one could see him easily playing Henry III as progenitor of such court practices.
Fabulous read, capturing the imagery and enticing me to read more on this ‘failed king’ whose imprint remained ever after on the trends of the French court.
So happy that you enjoyed!