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Author Archives: trompehalf
Anne of Britanny( 1477-1514) The Wealthy
Anne was the richest woman in Europe, she married Charles VIII and Louis XII. She ran the country for them both. She bore 14 children. Only three survived.
Charles VIII( 1470-1498) The Affable
One of the most foolish and incompetent monarchs of France. He wanted to conquer Italy. He failed miserably and bankrupted his kingdom. He died after a tennis game when he hit his head on a stone doorway lintel.
Louis XI( 1423-1483) The Universal Spider
Secretive, cunning, ruthless and superstitious, Louis XI worked the strings of governments like a harp. He loved plotting conspiracies.
Joan of Arc( 1412-1431) the Warrior Saint
Not a member of the Valois family, but she had a profound influence in their story. She saved the reign of Charles VII and he betrayed her. Joan had visions and heard voices to save France. She was divinely inspired … Continue reading
Charles VII( 1403-1461) The Victorious
Best known for being uncrowned and hopeless until his reign and kingdom were saved through the miracle of Joan of Arc and her unswerving dedication to him and her visions. Burned at the stake by the English, the self-serving Charles … Continue reading
Charles V ( 1338-1380) The Wise
Secretive, thin, ill proportioned, intelligent, taciturn and riddled with gout, Charles won back much of territorial France. He was the first of the great Valois builders( the Louvre and Bastille He is credited with starting the National Library of France.
John II ( 1319-1364) The Good
He was taken captive by the Black Prince and held for ransom in England. He negotiated a return to France. Whether a foolish or simply stupidity, John returned to English captivity and died while captive.
Philip VI( 1293-1350) The Fortunate
Not so fortunate. The 100 Years War began with Philip. The most devastating defeat happened in the Battle of Crécy. Before the battle was joined a storm ravaged the battlefield followed by a huge swlrling flock of panicked crows. Not … Continue reading
Eye See You Mirror
Eyes taken from portraits around the world are placed around the central mirror. When you walk past all the eyes shift. Looking up. Looking down. Looking sideways.
Mark Evans Fine Art 