Rudolf (1858–1889), son and heir of Emperor Franz Joseph I of Austria, who died at the age of 30, together with his mistress, under mysterious circumstances most often explained as a suicide, bringing an effective end to the Habsburg dynasty. In 1881, Rudolf married Stephanie, daughter of King Leopold II of Belgium. Scarce 3.75 x 4.5 albumen photo of the young couple, signed in ink “Stephanie” and “Rudolf.” Framed to an overall size of 5.5 x 6.25. In very good condition, with irregular adhesion to Stephanie’s signature (somewhat affecting legibility; very slightly affecting a few letters of Rudolf’s signature). Rudolf’s signature is otherwise clear and bold. RR Auction COA.
