Period of Charles X

The period of Charles X was the reign of Charles-Philippe, Duke of Auvergne, the last reigning member of the senior Bourbon line on the French throne. He ruled from September 16, 1824, until his abdication on August 2, 1830​​​​.

Charles X, born on October 9, 1757, at Versailles, was the younger brother of Kings Louis XVIand Louis XVIII. His reign was marked by efforts to restore the full power of the monarchy and reaffirm the Catholic Church's authority in France. However, his reign was characterized by increasing conflict with the liberal-majority Chamber of Deputies and growing unpopularity among the liberals in France​​​​​​.

His policies included the reimbursement of former landowners for the abolition of feudalism, increasing the Church's power, and reimposing capital punishment for sacrilege. He also approved the French conquest of Algeria and forced Haiti to pay a hefty indemnity for lifting a blockade and recognizing its independence. His reactionary rule led to the July Revolution of 1830, resulting in his abdication and the election of Louis-Philippe I as King of the French​​.

Charles X's reign ended with his exile, first to England and then to Scotland, Prague, and finally Istria, where he died in 1836. He was a strict upholder of the Catholic party and known for his lavish coronation ceremony, which, fifty years after Louis XVI's coronation, was seen as a step backwards and contributed to his downfall​​.

For collectors and experts in art, antiques, and history, the period of Charles X offers a unique insight into a turbulent and transformative era in French history. To stay informed about related collections, sales, and auction events, sign up for our updates.