Marie Thérèse de Bourbon, Princess of Conti and titular queen of Poland (d.1732)

Marie Thérèse de Bourbon (born February 1, 1666, died February 22, 1732) was a prominent figure within the French aristocracy of the Ancien Régime. Although primarily known for her brief and symbolic status as the titular Queen consort of Poland in 1697, her life also exemplified the intricate familial and political dynamics of the House of Bourbon.

As the daughter of the influential Henri Jules de Bourbon, Prince of Condé (himself the son of the renowned Louis II de Bourbon, le Grand Condé), Marie Thérèse belonged to one of France's most prestigious princely houses. Her mother was Anne Henriette of Bavaria, a granddaughter of the Elector Palatine Frederick V. This distinguished lineage ensured her elevated status as a Princesse du Sang, a specific and highly privileged title reserved for legitimate female members of the reigning House of Bourbon who were directly descended from a French king. This title conferred significant social standing, precedence at the royal court, and potential dynastic influence within the kingdom.

Marie Thérèse's life took a significant turn when she married her cousin, François Louis de Bourbon, Prince de Conti (also known as le Grand Conti), on January 22, 1688. This union was typical of the dynastic marriages designed to consolidate power and wealth within the extended royal family.

The year 1697 marked a curious chapter in her life, related directly to her husband's ambition for the Polish throne. Following the death of King John III Sobieski of Poland in 1696, the Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth faced a tumultuous royal election, a characteristic feature of its unique elective monarchy. François Louis de Bourbon, Prince de Conti, emerged as a leading candidate, strongly supported by his cousin, King Louis XIV of France.

On June 27, 1697, a faction of the Polish nobility, primarily those aligned with French interests, formally elected the Prince de Conti as King of Poland. This election theoretically bestowed upon Marie Thérèse the title of Queen consort. However, this claim remained purely titular. The competing candidate, Augustus II the Strong, Elector of Saxony, was more assertive. He swiftly converted to Catholicism, marched his army into Poland, and secured his coronation, effectively nullifying Conti's election. Despite Conti's subsequent expedition to Poland, he never successfully landed or gained widespread recognition, thus his and Marie Thérèse's claim to the throne remained symbolic and uncrowned.

After this fleeting political episode, Marie Thérèse de Bourbon lived a relatively private life in France, dedicated to piety and charitable works. She was known for her strong religious devotion and often preferred the quietude of her residences, such as the Château de Conti, over the intrigues of the Versailles court. She raised several children, although many of them tragically predeceased her. Her life, though marked by significant aristocratic lineage and a brief brush with a foreign crown, ultimately reflected a deep personal faith and commitment to her family responsibilities until her passing in 1732.

Frequently Asked Questions about Marie Thérèse de Bourbon

Who was Marie Thérèse de Bourbon by birth?

Marie Thérèse de Bourbon was the daughter of Henri Jules de Bourbon, Prince of Condé, and Anne Henriette of Bavaria. This made her a member of one of the highest-ranking branches of the French royal family, the House of Condé.

What did "Princesse du Sang" mean for her?

As a "Princesse du Sang," Marie Thérèse held an exceptionally high status within the French aristocracy. It designated her as a legitimate female descendant of a French king from the House of Bourbon, granting her significant precedence, privileges, and influence at court.

Why was she a "titular" Queen consort of Poland?

Marie Thérèse became a "titular" Queen consort because her husband, François Louis de Bourbon, Prince de Conti, was elected King of Poland by a faction of the Polish nobility in 1697. However, he never actually ascended the throne or was crowned, as Augustus II the Strong successfully claimed the crown. Therefore, her title remained symbolic rather than actual.

What was her role after the Polish succession attempt?

Following the failed attempt to secure the Polish throne, Marie Thérèse de Bourbon dedicated herself largely to religious devotion and charitable activities in France. She led a more private life, away from court politics, and focused on raising her children.