Larderei (Comte de Larderel)

Research Status: Comprehensive Last Updated: 2025-08-16 Diary Coverage: 1877

Identity

Count François Jacques de Larderel (1798-1858), French industrialist who invented a process for extracting boric acid from volcanic mud in Tuscany in 1827. Awarded the title Count of Montecerboli by Leopold II, Grand Duke of Tuscany.

Connection to Marie Bashkirtseff

Marie had a brief romantic encounter with a member of the Larderel family (likely the Count's son or descendant) in Florence during her travels. In September 1877, she mentions receiving a letter from Larderei upon his arrival in Naples, suggesting a romantic interest from his side.

Historical Context

The Larderel family was prominent in Italian industrial and social circles. Their boric acid extraction business in the volcanic areas of Tuscany made them wealthy and influential. The family maintained social connections across Italy, including Naples and Florence.

Literary References

• 1877-09-26: "Que la reine des violettes soit ici, je n'en doute pas. Mais quand pourrai-je être admis dans son royaume???" - Letter from Larderei to Marie upon his arrival in Naples

Sources

• Sotheby's auction records for Larderel family documents
• Marie Bashkirtseff biographical studies
• Industrial history of 19th century Tuscany