The third edition of "Royal Symbols & Rivalries at the Court of Antananarivo under the Reign of Radama II" by Nicolas Martin is now available in Madagascar's bookstores.
Between royal splendor and international rivalries, Nicolas Martin examines the reign of Radama II. Presented two days ago, the third edition of his work draws on rich iconography, including several previously unpublished images, to trace the young sovereign's path and the rivalries between France and England over Madagascar.
The author focuses particularly on the decorations created by Radama II (1829-1863), a first in Madagascar, as well as portraits of their recipients, both Malagasy and foreign. Among them is Mary Rasoamieja, a former slave who became the king's favorite.
The book also covers Radama II's coronation on September 23, 1862. For this occasion, Napoleon III sent a French delegation of 25 people, led by ship captain Marie-Jules Dupré, commander of "L'Hermione." He received the grand cross of the first class of the Order of Radama II. For their part, the English delegation, led by Major-General Montague-Cholmeley Johnstone, presented the sovereign with a congratulatory letter from Queen Victoria.
For Nicolas Martin, these events illustrate Radama II's desire to maintain balance between the two powers. "Radama II is presented as a Francophile. In fact, he always ensured maintaining a balance between France and England," he emphasizes. On his coronation day, the sovereign wore the field-marshal uniform offered by Queen Victoria and the gold crown offered by Napoleon III.
Cassie Ramiandrasoa