Madame du Barry's Domestic Pets: The Unknown History of Versailles

Madame du Barry

Enter the opulent world of Madame du Barry. In 18th-century France, it was all about sparkling parties and scrumptious feasts, but did you know she also had a soft spot for household pets?

Despite the tedious court intrigues and political maneuvering, Madame de Barry could always refresh her strength in the presence of her beloved pets. From the sleek cats lying in her boudoir to the exotic birds fluttering in her sunlit chambers, each of her pets adds to the picture of a fascinating, sophisticated, and charismatic woman whose personality captured even the king.

The portrait of Madame du Barry during her prime as the king's favorite at Versailles

A Glimpse into the World of Pets of Madame du Barry

Madame du Barry, born Jeanne Bécu, entered the French court as the mistress of King Louis XV after catching his eye in 1768. Known for her beauty and vivacious personality, she quickly rose to prominence, becoming a favorite of the aging king. However, unlike her predecessor Madame de Pompadour, Madame du Barry faced significant opposition from the nobility due to her humble origins.

Madame du Barry was born on August 19, 1743, in Vaucouleurs, France. She was the illegitimate daughter of Anne Bécu, a seamstress, and possibly a friar named Jean-Baptiste Gormand de Vaubernier. Jeanne grew up in relative poverty and obscurity, her humble beginnings in stark contrast to the opulence of the French court she would later inhabit. Her mother's connections eventually led Jeanne to Paris, where she found work as a seamstress and milliner. It was in Parisian society that she caught the attention of various wealthy men, including the Comte du Barry, who became her lover and eventually arranged for her to be introduced to the court of King Louis XV.

Jeanne du Barry is remembered in history as not just the final official mistress of King Louis XV of France, but also for her love of richness and excess. Amidst the splendor of the French court, Du Barry's passion for exotic animals shined brilliantly as a symbol of Versailes' eccentric tastes at the time. She developed a magnificent salon, unlike any previous lady in the French royal court. In addition to the famous painters, poets, and writers who were invited and with whom she formed friendships, she made it home for her domestic animals. 

Madame du Barry was among the first individuals at Versailles to keep Capuchin monkeys

Du Barry's pet collection revolved primarily around her adored monkeys. The choice of these extremely strange creatures appears to be an attempt to set herself apart from the King's past intimate concubines. 

She preferred to promote herself as a one-of-a-kind woman with unique perspectives and tastes, standing out from the crowd. 

Capuchin monkeys costumed in miniature courtly clothing walked the luxurious halls of Versailles, enchanting guests with their acrobatics and adding a humorous touch to the palace's grandeur. Madame du Barry's gatherings with her favourite courtiers and acquaintances were made more enjoyable and amusing by the capuchin monkey's adorable presence. Everyone's heart was captured by the hilarious antics and curious nature of these cheeky monkeys; whether perched on her shoulder or swaying from chandeliers, they instantly added a homey feel and comfort to the lavish atmosphere.

Capuchin Monkeys  

Capuchin monkeys are both curious and intelligent, and they are capable of forming deep emotional connections with humans

Capuchin monkeys are distinguished by their distinctive fur coat, usually in shades of brown or black with lighter hues on their faces and chests. Their bodies are sleek and agile, and their expressive faces are accented with round, wide-set eyes that convey both curiosity and intelligence. Capuchins' remarkable dexterity can be attributed to their prehensile tails and nimble fingers, which enable them to grasp objects and navigate their environment with ease. Capuchin monkeys are known for their playful and inquisitive nature in terms of behavior. 

Their intelligence is often displayed through problem-solving and exploration. 

Curious by instinct, they eagerly investigate their surroundings, using their keen senses to forage for food and engage in social interactions with other members of their group. Capuchins are known for their social nature, forming close-knit family groups that depend on cooperation and communication for survival. Within these groups, they exhibit complex social hierarchies, with individuals vying for dominance through displays of aggression or submission. 

Parrots

Along with her monkey buddies, Du Barry kept a beautiful collection of parrots, who with their brilliant plumage and abilities to mimic human speech, added a splash of color to every courtly festivity. Their presence offered an exotic twist, sending guests to faraway locations with their tropical calls.

Madame du Barry's parrot collection was as vast and colorful as the feathers on her beautiful hats. Several renowned breeds were among her cherished parrots, each providing a unique color and personality to the settings of her parties.

Madame du Barry liked to spend time in her private chambers in the company of colorful and talkative parrots

First and foremost, the beautiful macaws with their brilliant blue, green, and yellow plumage and impressive size and striking appearance. The symbol of wealth and exoticism. Madame du Barry's macaws included species such as the Scarlet Macaw (Ara macao) and the Blue-and-Yellow Macaw (Ara ararauna). Besides macaws, Madame du Barry possessed smaller parrot species, like the charming lovebird or the elegant cockatiel. The vibrant plumage and affectionate nature of lovebirds made them popular companions among French nobility due to their endearing displays of courtship and companionship. With their distinctive crest and melodious chirps, cockatiels added elegance to every occasion. 

Dogs and Cats

Not content with species that prefer trees only, Du Barry also enjoyed the company of dogs generally of rarer breeds than the then-popular Papillons and Phelanes (who were Madame de Pompadour's favorite pets).

Her devoted Pomeranian, Coco, who had an endless appetite, was among them. 

In addition to Coco, Duchess, an Afghan Hound who is known for her noble temperament, was present.

Pomeranian dogs are cute toy breeds that make brilliant companions. According to some sources, Madame du Barry owned a Pomeranian named Coco

Pomeranians are welcome in all settings and company, whether they're lounging in the sun-drenched parlors or curling up by the fireside. These small companions are favored for their affectionate nature and elegant appearance. Due to their distinct double coats and fox-like faces and because Pomeranians' diminutive size doesn't deter them from radiating confidence and charisma, Pomeranians became beloved pets in France.

Among cats, Du Barry preferred cats that were graceful and elegant, such as Persians and Siamese, because of their delicate movements and regal looks. 

Among her treasured companions were her Persian cats, elegant and regal creatures named Duchess and Marquis. Whether basking in the sunlit parlors or reclining on velvet cushions, these feline aristocrats were the epitome of sophistication.

Before Madame du Barry, another notable figure in the French court who admired Persian cats was Madame de Maintenon. Madame de Maintenon was the second wife of King Louis XIV of France. She held considerable influence over the king and was deeply involved in court affairs. Madame de Maintenon had a fondness for Persian cats and often kept them as companions in her private chambers at the Palace of Versailles.

Persian cats are known for their magnificent long, flowing fur, which requires frequent care to keep its opulent appearance. Their wide, expressive eyes and characteristic flat features add to their regal and majestic appeal. Persian cats are noted for their peaceful and laid-back personalities, making them ideal companions in relaxed households. They are loving and enjoy reclining in luxury, typically found perched on soft pillows or curled up in sunny locations throughout the house. While they may not be as lively or playful as other types, their delicate and charming temperament appeals to many cat lovers.

Siamese cats have striking blue eyes and were popular as pets in Versailles

Siamese cats have a sleek and muscular body, with dazzling blue almond-shaped eyes that enchant anyone who looks at them. Their short, fine coat comes in a variety of colors, with darker coloration on the ears, face, paws, and tail and lighter coloring on the rest of the body. Siamese cats are well-known for their vocal abilities, and they like conversing with their human companions using a variety of different vocalizations to communicate their ideas. Siamese cats are extremely clever and curious, and they thrive on mental stimulation and connection, frequently seeking attention and playfulness from their human family members. They build close ties with their owners and are known for their affection and loyalty, making them valued members of the family.

Legacy

In the opulent courts of 18th-century France, where extravagance knew no bounds, Jeanne du Barry, carved out her own space that make her stand out. Du Barry's extravagant lifestyle and penchant for exotic creatures sparked controversy. Her opponents frequently cited her extravagant animal expenditures as evidence of her frivolity, and through critic of her persona they subtly criticized court's wasteful spending. Especially at a time when many French people were struggling financially.

However, in face of critic she remained truthfull to herself. In her own world, where animals had access, she found respite amidst the chaos of courtly life, surrounded by adorable and enchanting creatures who make life simpler.

Madame du Barry aged gracefully in the company of her pets

Jeanne du Barry's pets remain a testament to her unique personality. In a world of mans defined by power and politics, she was able to maneuver with skill, while her love for animals served as a reminder of the simple pleasures that transcend wealth and status.  Du Barry's love for animals extended beyond mere companionship; it was a reflection of her deep appreciation for the beauty and diversity of the natural world. In her private sanctuary, amidst the chaos of courtly life, she found solace in the company of creatures both exotic and familiar.
As we reflect on the legacy of Jeanne du Barry, let us not only remember her as a captivating figure of French history but also as a powerfull woman that shaped history, but also as a woman who was able to break taboos and acquired power in the age dominated by man and was by it formly grounded in natural worldm in the company of creature great and small