Decapitated in 1793, France's last Queen, Marie-Antoinette, seems a surprising muse for the modern nation. But Sofia Coppola's new biopic of the doomed monarch, now drawing crowds in French cinemas, is only one sign of burgeoning Marie mania. Michèle Lorin, founding president of the Queen's fan club, is thrilled by the new themed products on sale. "I'll admit I'm a publicity whore when it comes to the Queen," she says.
Sweet Nostalgia
Marie-Antoinette never suggested that the poor should "eat cake," but that hasn't stopped confectioner Ladurée from creating a Marie-Antoinette collection of its pastel-colored macaroons.
Theme Queen
In July, the Château de Versailles reveals a Marie-Antoinette "domain." A spokesman promises "the rediscovery of the intimate Marie-Antoinette" in her bucolic former refuge.
Tempus Fugit
Swiss watchmaker Breguet is recreating the nÞ160. The watch originally commissioned for Marie-Antoinette by a mystery admirer incorporated every horological complication in existence. NÞ160's release date and price remain top secret.
Dead Sexy
Perfumer Francis Kurkdjian has created a fragrance that purports to reflect Marie-Antoinette's tastes. A limited edition of 10 25-cl Baccarat crystal flasks of M.A. in the Queen's Wake will sell for €8,000 each, with a smaller
flacon de voyage at €350.
Q-Cups
The Ancienne Manufacture Royale de Limoges at Bernardaud has reproduced the Queen's porcelain including the Jatte-téton bowl, which, according to legend, was molded on the royal bosom.