Figure from the Museum of Ventura County collection.

Text: Duchess Yolande de Polignac Signature

The Polignacs knew when it was time to get out of the way of danger—they are still with us today.

Duchess Yolande de Polignac (1749-1793) was a close friend of Marie Antoinette and was deeply involved in court intrigues. Her sharp wit and greed made her many enemies at court. However, she made the Queen feel beautiful and talented, gaining the Queen’s friendship and affection. Along with the majority of parasitical aristocrats, she and her family fled France the month the Bastille fell.

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