Governess of the Children of France

As the head of the royal nursery, she was charged with the education of the children and grandchildren of the monarch.

The holder of the office was taken from the highest-ranking nobility of France and was passed between female family members for much of its history by right of succession (survivance).

The governess was supported by various deputies or under-governesses (sous gouvernantes) and oversaw a household consisting of dozens of servants and caregivers.

The Livre qui contient tout ce qui peut interesser Madame la Gouvernante des Enfans de France et surintandante de Leurs Maisons[1] (1704-44) is the primary written source on the office of the royal governess during the Bourbon dynasty.

It includes the etiquette, ceremonial procedures and daily responsibilities of the role in great detail.