This pair of French costume prints presents four figures drawn from the courtly world of the late 16th century, rendered as hand-colored engravings that emphasize rank, dress, and presence. The compositions come from the “Costumes Historiques” series of the mid-19th century, based on earlier archival sources such as the Gaignières portfolios of the late 17th century, which ground the imagery in documented historical dress.
The figures are arranged in balanced pairs within each frame, combining male and female sitters in a clear, orderly presentation. The subjects include individuals connected to the Parlement of Paris, among them a Premier Président and members of established noble families. Their dress reflects both legal office and aristocratic status, with long judicial robes, structured bodices, ermine-lined mantles, and formal headwear that signal position within the royal administration and court society under Henri III and Henri IV. The palette remains controlled, with black, deep red, and cream tones that allow details such as ermine, lacework, and gold trim to stand out clearly.
These are hand-colored engravings, with color applied carefully over finely engraved line work so that detail remains crisp and legible. This gives the figures a composed, documentary quality. The frames contribute strongly to the presentation, with a speckled gilt border and black mat that create contrast and visual weight. The framing reflects mid-19th century decorative taste and supports the set as a cohesive wall display.
The strength of the group lies in its clarity and coherence, four figures, two frames, consistent scale, and unified presentation, combined with identifiable historical subjects connected to the Parlement of Paris.

Condition: Excellent, with very slight wear consistent with age and use
Price: $780
Dimensions: 15.25″ W x 13.25″ H
Decoration: Hand-colored engravings depicting French court costume
Material: Paper, wood frames with gilt and painted finish
Style: Historical Revival with Renaissance subject matter
Origin: France
Date: Mid-19th century

Note: The prints identify figures including Françoise Robertet, dame de Rostaing, connected to the Robertet family of royal financial officials, and Anne de Thou, dame de Chiverni, associated with a prominent judicial family. Another figure represents a Premier Président of the Parlement of Paris under Henri III. The compositions are drawn from documented sources such as the Gaignières portfolios.

Notable Details:
• Hand-colored engravings from the “Costumes Historiques” series
• Based on Gaignières archival costume studies
• Includes figures identified with the Parlement of Paris
• Judicial and aristocratic dress, including ermine-lined robes
• Crisp engraved line work preserved beneath applied color
• Distinctive speckled gilt frames with black matting
• Cohesive presentation suitable for symmetrical display