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François II of France, 1544 - 1560
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François II of France, 1544 - 1560 Before 1560

On Display PORTRAIT GALLERY

This intricate portrait shows Francois II, the son of Catherine de Medici and the first husband of Mary, Queen of Scots. In 1559, a year after his marriage, he succeeded to the French throne. This could have proved a very important marriage as future kings of France would not only have had a claim to the Scottish throne but also the throne of England, via Mary?s great-grandfather Henry VII. However, Francois died in 1560 aged just sixteen. This enamelled portrait shows the young king with an ermine trimmed coat and beret. The detailing of his face is exceptional. Limoges enamelled portraits such as this from the Royal court would most likely have been intended to be displayed within richly decorated palace interiors.

Glossary Open

Limoges Enamel

Specialist enamel produced in the French town of Limoges, which, by the twelfth century, was the most famous centre for porcelain enamel in Europe. It was usually applied to a copper base.

Limoges Enamel

Details

  • Acc. No. PG 2814
  • Medium Limoges enamel
  • Size Height: 7.50 cm
  • Credit Bought with the aid of the Patrons of the National Galleries of Scotland in 1990

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