Edward Matthew Ward (1816–1879) Harris Museum, Art Gallery & Library
In her last moments, Marie Antoinette wrote to her sister-in-law, Madame Elisabeth, with whom she had developed a close and genuine friendship over the years. Élisabeth Louise Vigée Le Brun (1755–1842) (style of) National Trust, Cliveden
Her only thoughts went to her children, whom she desperately wanted to protect, even after her death. It grieves me very sensibly to leave my poor children; you know that I existed only for them and you, my kind and affectionate sister.
She advised, Let them both reflect on what I have unceasingly taught them, that virtuous principles and the exact performance of every duty, are the first basis of life; that their happiness will depend on their mutual affection and confidence. She ended her letter with what she wanted her legacy to be: Let them never seek to revenge our death. It was for her wise words and her maternal affection that Marie An
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India is the land of colour: of ruby reds, emerald greens, sapphire blues and the countless hues of diamonds, from vivid yellow to the rare, softly luminous white that emerged from the legendary Golconda mines. The country is as famous for the vivid cast of its jewellery as it is for its spectacular architecture and exquisitely embroidered textiles. A detail of Shah Jahan. Getty Images
The jewellery that sparkles in the vitrines of India’s family jewellers today owes its stylistic roots to the Mughal emperors who ruled India for 300 years until 1858. They maintained a court renowned for its wealth, high culture and love of precious objects, in particular jewellery.