Portrait Of Marshal Turenne, Henri De La Tour d'Auvergne, 18th Century, Oil On Canvas

Portrait of Marshal de Turenne, Henri de La Tour d'Auvergne, Viscount of Turenne (1611-1675). Oil on canvas, 18th century French school, relined, restored, frame replaced. Provenance: Marquis de Fontange. Dimensions without frame H52.5 cm x W49 cm, dimensions with frame as is (numerous restorations and losses) H87.5 cm x W64 cm. Marshal de Turenne is one of the greatest French military leaders of the 17th century. Born in 1611 in Sedan into a Protestant noble family, he is the son of Henri de La Tour d'Auvergne, Duke of Bouillon, and Elisabeth Nassau, daughter of William the Silent. Turenne entered the military career at a very young age. He first fought alongside the Dutch, then joined the French army in 1630. He quickly distinguished himself during the Thirty Years' War, particularly in Germany and Italy. During the Fronde (1648-1653), a civil war pitting royal power against rebellious nobles, Turenne was initially hesitant, but eventually came to firmly support King Louis XIV and Mazarin. He helped to quell the rebellions and restore royal authority. He was named Marshal of France in 1643, then rose to the rank of Marshal General of the King's camps and armies, a rare and prestigious title. His military talents were fully demonstrated during the War of Devolution (1667-1668) and especially the Dutch War (1672-1678). Turenne died in 1675, struck by a cannonball during the German campaign. Louis XIV paid tribute to him by organizing a grandiose funeral. In 1800, Napoleon Bonaparte had his ashes transferred to Les Invalides in Paris. Turenne is celebrated for his strategic genius, his discipline, his modest character, and his devotion to duty. He was respected by both his soldiers and his enemies. He remains a major figure in French military history.