Portrait of Marie Antoinette

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The iconic sculpture is displayed prominently on the Queen's chamber mantelpiece at The Chateau of Versailles. Marie-Antoinette had a knack for surrounding herself with the most skilled artists of her time, including Félix Lecomte, who crafted her stunning bust in Carrara marble back in 1783. The Queen of France is portrayed with regal dignity, dressed in an intricately designed floral royal coat and lined with luxurious ermine. Her elaborate high wig, reminiscent of the era's style, is adorned with a delicate rose and held by a ribbon, while a medallion bearing the profile of Louis XVI hangs elegantly around her neck. At just twenty-eight years old, Queen Marie-Antoinette, who had been reigning for nine years and was mother to two children, exudes youthful vibrancy in this depiction. The artist masterfully captures her freshness through the elegant headdress and radiant smile on her face. Contemporary critics were quick to praise this masterpiece, hailing Lecomte's exceptional skill: "The sculptor has reserved all his artistry, precision, and subtlety for the queen's bust, showcasing her in ceremonial attire... Her physiognomy embodies unparalleled elegance and nobility."