Tuesday, Jul. 13, 2010
Claude Du Val
The 17th century French highwayman was known for defying the norms of armed road thievery by not resorting to violence when ripping people off. He used charm. Legend has it that Du Val was a bit of a fashionista who presented himself differently than your average dirty, uncouth robber. He is described as "dashing, witty and handsome," so much so that in at least one instance (re-created in this painting), he agreed to steal only half of a traveler's loot because the victim's wife agreed to dance with Du Val. After 10 years on the run from authorities, the Normandy-born fugitive was caught by police and hanged. Women flocked to his wake, fighting for a chance to touch his body.