A Brief History Of Louis XV And French

Furniture

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Nobody Does It Like The French

• Vineyards, the French Riviera, fine cheeses and Parisian cafes. Nobody lives as well as the French do

• The French know how to make life romantic, beautiful and comfortable

• Let’s take a look through the Louis XV era in French furniture history

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“In every room, the furniture reflects

you larger than life, or dwindling”

Adrienne Rich

Louis XV• Known as the beloved

King, he ruled from 1715 – 1774

• The beautiful French furniture style we know today flourished during his reign

• The furniture created in this time certainly lives up to French traditions. Designed for the comfort and glorification of beautiful woman

Image Source: Wikipedia

• This furniture is romantic, sensuous and feminine

• Just like a beautiful lady the unbroken curves are the distinguished feature of all Louis furniture

• The legs and back and seats are always beautifully curved

Often referred to as the Rococo style. This is derived from the two

French words meaning rock and shell.

Image source: Natalie

The rock and shell were the two most popular motifs for both

decoration and furniture during this period.

Did you know that at this time the French were captivated with all things Chinese?

• This fascination was called ‘chinoiserie’

• The French embraced this new Chinese method of painting called ‘Lacquering’, using it to paint wooden furniture

Image Source: Behang.chinoiserie.jpg

The fundamental characteristics of Louis XV furniture are:

Everything is elaborately decorated

with intricate carvings.

Romantic imagery Is

found reflected in

the designs

Everything

was

designed w

ith grace

and delica

cy in mind

.

Everything is hand painted.

These beautiful and classic moments in

history can still be found an celebrated today.

Classic French furniture is more popular than

ever, thanks to its impeccable comfort and

romantic design.

• Vintage shabby chic Rococo/Baroque style is incredibly popular at current

• These collectors pieces of furniture, including armoire chairs, the settee and French beds are in high demand and last the test of time

• France will always be setting trends for the home

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