Period Classical French Interiors

From Versailles to Provence palaces and homes of nobility shared the same approach to the decorative arts.  Those who built at smaller scales and budgets emulated as much of the grand chateaux and state buildings they could afford.  The French were inspired by the Italian Renaissance and emulated the schemes for interiors which had French architects traveling to Rome and Florence to consult with Italian masons and artisans.  French interiors were as frou frou as the most decorative interiors of the Vatican and the Italian aristocratic merchant class.  Gilding was added to the moldings of French kings.  Others painted in gold.  Colorful palettes from crown moldings and panels were carefully balanced.  There was a hierarchy that resulted in three dimensional figurines and fruit, carvings of animals and historical figures, to wall and ceiling frescoes depicting mythological, religious, and political themes -- all applied to the most important public state rooms and royal quarters, all of which was tempered down to smaller private rooms and ancillary spaces.  The overwhelming effects are considered 'museum-like' for many of our smaller scaled residences and so scaling back the coloration and heavy ornamental qualities of these historic castles and mansions becomes the contemporary architect's task.

NEXT: Designing the Contemporary French Interior

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