Jean-Ferdinand François de Pracht

Jean-Ferdinand François (1727 - Present) is the eldest child of Marie Helene, Madame la Dauphine and her husband, Jean-Auguste.

Reign of Louis V - Son Altesse Imperiale, le Duc d'Anjou
Jean-Ferdinand François was born on the 24th of August, 1727 at the Chateau du Egmont. Many had gathered to watch the birth, once again being unwilling to miss the birth of an heir to the throne. Even before he was born, he had been referred to as le Petit Dauphin. This was not his official title though, as he was given the title of Duc d'Anjou, a customary title for younger members of the Imperial Family.

Jean-Ferdinand was brought up in such pleasurable surroundings of the palace that he quickly became acquainted with the lavish entertainment and splendour of court life. Unlike other children of his age, the young Duc was not kept in seclusion but rather kept in the public eye of the court by his grandfather. Around a year after his birth, another son of the Emperor was born, making him older than one of his uncles. As the eldest child of the Dauphine, he was in the rank of Son of Pracht, being equal to the sons of the Emperor.

He began his education in 1732, his tutor being the Cardinal de Normandie. He would receive a comprehensive education, learning languages, writing, music, foreign policy, affairs of state, mathematics, geography, history and many other topics. He would enjoy studying music especially, particularly harpsichord. He resides at court today, continuing his education.

Titles and Styles
-24th August 1727 - Present: Son Altesse Imperiale, le Duc d'Anjou, Monsieur le Petit Dauphin

Honours

 * Knight of the Order of the Holy Spirit