Margaret De Flahaut, 1788-1867: A Scotswoman At The French Court

This book features a biography of Margaret Mercer Elphinstone (1788-1867), whose powerful mind and independent spirit was never daunted by adversity as she sought to realize her ambitions for her family against the background of intellectual upheaval and social and political change which followed the French Revolution and the end of the ancien régime.

The turning-point in her life was her controversial marriage in 1817 with the general Charles de Flahaut (1785-1870), which, contrary to all expectations, resulted in one of the most successful partnerships in the 'auld alliance' between France and Scotland.
Margaret was also a skilled draughtswoman and painter. Eight of her colourful portrait miniatures are featured in the book.