Lady Oscar - Die Rose von Versailles #1

The Rose of Versailles, known as Lady Oscar, was created by Riyoko Ikeda and debuted in Shōjo manga magazine Margaret in 1972. Set against the backdrop of the French Revolution, the narrative follows Oscar François de Jarjayes, a woman raised as a man to serve in the Royal Guard. Ikeda’s work was groundbreaking for its historical scope and its exploration of gender identity, ultimately becoming one of the most influential manga series in the shōjo genre.

The design of the early volumes captured the dramatic, ornate aesthetic of 18th-century France filtered through the distinct, expressive art style of the 1970s. Upon its release, the series was received with immense acclaim for its sophisticated blend of political drama and romantic tragedy. It played a pivotal role in popularizing historical settings in manga and remains a touchstone of Japanese pop culture, having inspired numerous adaptations and lasting cultural discourse.