Francois Boucher - Portrait of Madame de Pompadour

The name of Madame de Pompadour became a household name during her lifetime. Her love affair with Louis XV lasted no more than five years, but the influence extended much further and lasted longer. Pompadour managed to maintain close friendly relations with the king and in many areas, in fact, took over the management of the state. "After us, even a flood!" - it is she who is credited with this winged expression.