Charles Emmanuel I, Duke of Savoy
Charles Emmanuel I, known as the Great, was the Duke of Savoy and ruler of the Savoyard states from 30 August 1580 until his death almost 50 years later in 1630, he was the longest reigning Savoyard monarch at the time, only for his record to be surpassed by his great-grandson, Victor Amadeus II. He was nicknamed Testa d'feu for his rashness and military aggression.
Portrait by unknown, c. 17th century
Charles Emmanuel as a boy with dwarf, portrait by Giacomo Vighi, c. 1572
Portrait by Jan Kraeck
Savoyard armour captured by the Genevans after Charles Emmanuel's failed attack on Geneva
Counts and dukes of Savoy
The titles of count of Savoy, and then duke of Savoy, are titles of nobility attached to the historical territory of Savoy. Since its creation, in the 11th century, the county was held by the House of Savoy. Several of these rulers ruled as King at one point in history or another.
Coat of arms of the House of Savoy (16th century), the ruling family of Savoy from the 11th century to the 19th century.
Image: Ritratto di Umberto il Biancamano
Image: Ritratto in Armatura del Conte Amedeo I di Savoia Google Art Project
Image: Ritratto del Conte Umberto II di Savoia