This miniature frigate, a toy belonging to the only son of Napoleon III and the Empress Eugénie, was built in the workshops at the Brest arsenal and given to the Prince Imperial in 1863. It measures 3.86m in length and 1.10m in width and was immediately launched on the carp pond at Fontainebleau. It is composed of a rowing boat, built in the shape of a 92-gun vessel.
A faithful scale reproduction of a warship, it includes a bridge, cannons, an anchor, three masts and is fitted with a small bench and a pair of oars. This toy was a favourite of Louis Napoleon and he was often seen rowing in it on the pond. It is also a key piece in the Château de Fontainebleau's collection and bears witness to happier moments shared by the imperial family.
In September 2009, it will undergo restoration.
The Prince Imperial’s frigate on the carp pond at Fontainebleau
- Date :
- Second Empire
- Technique :
- Post card
- Photo credit :
- © D.R.