dolls house source information about 16th century french interior design

French Style In The Eighteenth Century

French and English artisans in France and England dominated furniture design during the eighteenth century. Craftsmen from other countries were influenced by these styles and created their own distinctive national styles through their work.

French Regence style of the early 1700’s was so named because it occurred under Regency rule. When Louis XIV died in 1715, his heir and grandson King Louis XV was only five years old. The Duke Of Orleans, Louis’ uncle was appointed Regent in his place. The Duke disliked the formality of Versailles and instead moved the royal court to Paris. Courtisans lived outside the palace in town houses, smaller and more intimate than the Palace of Versailles. Their style of furniture became known as Regence.

Regence furniture was lighter and more elegant than Louis XIV style furniture. Curves and floral designs were prolific and the cabriole leg and Chinoiserie were recognizable characteristics.

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