The Changing Images of Empress Eugénie

The Second Empire coincided with the commercial development of photography. The Imperial family were instrumental in popularising Carte de Visite and stereoscopic photography and in turn photography enabled images of the Imperial family to be widely distributed. The Empress was front of house for the Second Empire, portraits, sculptures and photographs of her were seen globally and were a catalyst in establishing France as the capital of haute couture.

For less than twenty years Eugenie’s image was known and recognised around the world – her style was admired, studies and copied. Her look was curated and controlled as the face of the Empire’s brand. 

Defeat in the France-Prussian War unleashed a backlash – caricatures portrayed her with a very different image, cruel and insulting she became the face that France wanted to despise. In England, an exiled Empress was a figure of sympathy and Eugénie took steps to take control of her own image once more.

Details of this digital documentary and exhibition will be posted here as soon as possible. In the meantime you can check out the three talks given on May 5th considering different aspects of the Empress and her role.

Eugénie’s Political Influence

This is the first of three talks given at Camden Place on 5th May 2026 as part of our celebration of the Empress Eugénie’s bicentenary. This talk given by historian and author Dr Edward Shawcross explores the political role and influence of the Empress. Starting by establishing how unpopular the new Empress was and what a tough role she faced and going on to consider her leadership in France’s soft power – establishing the shop window on modern France.

Eugénie’s and Culture and Couture

Two past lady captains of Chislehurst Golf Club and two of Camden Place’s volunteer tour guides, Gill Homes and Gerry Verge, consider how the Empresses support launched brands like Worth and Louis Vuitton that have stood the test of time. Her support of the arts also transformed careers. She used her influence to promote the interests and rights of women, from education to recognition.

Eugénie and Queen Victoria

The third talk given at Camden Place on 5th May 2026, was given by historian Frances Foster. Her research focused on the friendship between two young Queens and very powerful women who first met in 1855. Their relationship started slowly but deepened over the years and lasted until Victoria’s death These insights are more personal and provide a sense of the Empress as an individual.