Historical figures from the 18th century in paintings and photographs (9 photos)

The 18th century seems so distant, as if its heroes have forever remained in faded portraits with wigs, lace, and candles. However, some people, born at the court of kings and musketeers, lived to see the invention of photography. They were photographed alive, in the era of steam engines and the first trains. These photographs offer a remarkable bridge between two worlds: the old, legendary 18th century, and the new, which was just beginning to look at itself through the lens.

Maria Amalia of Naples





The last queen of France. Despite her status, she detested French fashion and wore Italian lace and simple cuts her entire life, considering Parisian attire vulgar.

Mary, Duchess of Gloucester and Edinburgh



She was a member of the British royal family. She outlived all of her siblings, of whom there were 10. None of them were ever photographed, only she.

Arthur Wellesley Wellington





Prime Minister of Great Britain. After defeating Napoleon at the Battle of Waterloo, he became so famous that in Britain, a type of rubber boot was named after him—they are called "Wellington boots."

William Turner



English artist, known for his oil paintings, watercolors, and engravings. Considered a precursor of the Impressionists.

Dolly Madison



First Lady of the United States, wife of the 4th President of the United States, James Madison. She introduced the tradition of presidential receptions featuring ice cream at the White House, which was then considered a rare and exotic delicacy.

Ferdinand I



Emperor of Austria. Despite his appearance in photographs, he was nicknamed "Ferdinand the Good."

Victoria of Saxe-Coburg-Saalfeld



Mother of Queen Victoria of Great Britain. She played a decisive role in securing her daughter's accession to the British throne, despite being German and a widow of no influence.

Leopold I



The first King of Belgium. He rejected an offer to become King of Greece, considering that country too unstable, and soon founded the much more stable Kingdom of Belgium.

Louis-Philippe I



The last King of France. And probable great-great-great-grandfather of Elvis Presley.