French 2

The Palace of Versailles is an excellent example of Baroque style.  It all began with Louis XII.  It started as a hunting lodge and then Louis XIV enlarged it into a palace.  The most famous room of the palace is the Hall of Mirrors.  During this time mirrors were the most expensive things to posses.  The Hall of Mirrors reflect the windows that overlook the garden.  It has a total of twenty-one mirrors.  Many of the other pieces of furniture in the Hall of Mirrors were lost in the war for financial purposes.

Palace of Versailles

Hall of Mirrors

The Rococo style of the French Renaissance came after the Baroque period.  The style was ornate, used light colors, asymmetrical designs, curves, and gold. The design was associated with Louis XV reign.  During the Rococo period the furniture was lighthearted.  Furniture now as comfortable and versatile.  Furniture could easily be moved around.  Furniture was now freestanding.  It didn't have to be anchored to the wall.  Mahogany was mainly used for furniture due to its strength.  Mirrors would hang above mantels due to the height of unblemished glass.  The architecture as different too.  There were city mansions and townhouses instead of chateaux and palaces.  The exteriors and gardens seemed less important.  Dwellings seemed smaller.  The interiors were more feminine due to Louis XV's mistress.  They had all the rooms we have today except bathrooms.

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Extra Credit: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=V6xX1pRYFNY