Princess Marie-Adelaide of Savoy,
Duchess of Burgundy,
French School, on vellum, circa 1711.

Betrothed at the age of 11 as part of the Treaty of Turin, Princess Marie-Adelaide of Savoy (1685-1712) married the 14 year old Duke of Burgundy at Versailles on her 12th birthday. Adored by the Duke's grandfather, Louis XIV, cunning Marie-Adelaide used her influence over the old king to further her husband's position. The Duchess gave birth to three sons. Only the last, born in 1710, who would become Louis XV, lived beyond infancy. When, in 1710, the Duke's father, Le Grand Dauphin, died, the Duke became the Dauphin of France and Marie-Adelaide the Dauphine. Their reign lasted less than a year. Both died from measles, only a week apart. Marie-Adelaide was 26. The couple were buried together at the Basilica of Saint Dennis.

Set in a metal frame with scroll surmount.

3 3/4 inches high.