Influenced by the antique and Greco-Roman styles, Louis XVI antiques and furniture affirm the return of classicism.
The emergence of the Louis XVI style
The Louis XVI style was born in 1774, when Louis XVI ascended the throne. This new furnishing and decoration trend was the continuation of the transitional style (from Louis XV to Louis XVI).
During these 15 years, the Louis XVI style finally broke with the rocaille style of Louis XV style furniture. Louis XVI style is mainly characterised by a strong influence of antiquity. The ruins of Herculaneum and Pompeii, which were discovered during this period, suggest that the Louis XVI style antiques and furniture had a classical appeal:
- Greco-Roman inspired motifs: ribbon knots, rectilinear forms and geometric curves.
- Ornaments celebrating plant nature: laurel leaves, ovoid friezes, rosettes
- Furniture with fluted feet, square columns, seating with medallion-shaped backrests
Antiques and furniture in the Louis XVI style
Louis XVI style antiques and furniture return to more symmetrical curves and more minimalist gilding. Far from the rocaille forms of the Louis XV style, the Louis XVI style adds lightness and comfort to this furniture, which is intended for more feminine use.
The most important Louis XVI style furniture:
- It is impossible to imagine the Bergerie Louis XVI without it. With its sides, various seats with backrests in medallion, hot air balloon or cabriolet shape,
- The dining room, the Tronchin table, the Guéridon table,
- The console and the half-moon chest of drawers, The bonheur-du-jour piece of furniture,
- The cylinder desk and the folding secretary,
- The Louis XVI furniture in mahogany (veneer wood).
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