Figure from the Museum of Ventura County collection.

Text: Countess Jeanne de la Motte Signature

Her actions resulted in a devastating blow to the royal family’s prestige.

Mme. Jeanne de la Motte (1756-1793) was involved in “The Diamond Necklace Scandal” that shook the court of Louis XVI. She was a poseur and thief, who, with her husband, made her way at court through bluff and masquerade. The theft of the famous diamond necklace was her undoing. Her imprisonment, escape and mysterious death in London were the bitter fruits of her deceptions.

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