Adélaïde d'Orléans

Adélaïde d'Orléans, born on August twenty-third, seventeen seventy-seven, was a distinguished French princess and a talented botanical illustrator. As the daughter of Philippe d'Orléans, known as Philippe Égalité during the tumultuous times of the French Revolution, and Louise Marie Adélaïde de Bourbon, she was steeped in the complexities of royal life from an early age.

Initially titled Mademoiselle de Chartres at birth, her title changed to Mademoiselle d'Orléans following the tragic death of her older twin sister in seventeen eighty-two. Throughout her life, she held various titles, including Mademoiselle from seventeen eighty-three until eighteen twelve, and later, Madame Adélaïde in eighteen thirty.

As a member of the reigning House of Bourbon, Adélaïde was recognized as a princesse du sang, a title that underscored her noble lineage. Her contributions to the arts, particularly in botanical illustration, showcased her creativity and passion for nature, leaving a lasting legacy that transcended her royal status.