Madame de Pompadour (Jeanne Antoinette Poisson)

Madame de Pompadour, born Jeanne Antoinette Poisson, was a prominent French courtier and mistress of King Louis XV during the 18th century. She held significant influence at the French court, advising on political and cultural matters, and was a patron of the arts, fostering projects in architecture, literature, and music. Her intelligence and sophistication helped shape French cultural life, making her a notable figure in pre-Revolutionary France. Despite her role as a royal mistress, she was respected for her wit, political acumen, and contributions to society, leaving a lasting impact on French history.