Which advisers influenced Franz Joseph during the early years of his reign?

During the early years of his reign, Franz Joseph was guided by several influential figures who helped shape his personal regime and the administration of the Austrian Empire:

• Klemens, Fürst von Metternich: The former chancellor exerted a lasting influence on the young emperor, representing a traditional monarchist perspective.1
• Felix, Prince zu Schwarzenberg: Serving as prime minister and foreign minister from 1848 until his death in 1852, Schwarzenberg was a key adviser who helped Franz Joseph establish order in the empire and secure a dominant position for Austria in external affairs, such as through the Punctation of Olmütz.2
• Other Key Officials: During the era of neo-absolutism (1849–1859), the emperor was also aided by advisers such as Leo, Graf von Thun und Hohenstein and Alexander, Freiherr von Bach, who helped staff the civil service with competent experts.2
• Empress Elizabeth: Following their marriage in 1854, his wife, the Duchess Elizabeth of Bavaria, exerted a profound personal influence on him.1

After Schwarzenberg’s death in 1852, Franz Joseph took a more direct, personal role in formulating foreign policy and making strategic military decisions.2