Charles X style lasted from 1818 to 1834, partly during the reign of Charles X, comte d’Artois, during the Bourbon Restoration. One of the main features is the softening of shapes from the Empire style, as pieces of furniture were curvier. Dimensions were decreased so that pieces of furniture could fit smaller appartments. Comfort was […]
Category: Style
Directoire style
The Directoire style, which takes place from 1789 to 1804, is concurrent with the French Revolution, the Directory and the beginning of the Consulate. The period thus inherits a certain classicism, particularly through references to Antiquity both concerning the motifs and the rectilinear and geometric forms. The curule seats become for example a popular model. […]
Louis-Philippe style
Under the reign of Louis-Philippe I, the decorative arts, especially goldsmithery and furniture, have its glory days. Jacob-Desmalter and Bellanger take part in the diffusion of this new opulent style which seduces quickly the new bourgeoisie. Imposing and massive furniture with an important comfort and practice research characterizes the style. The chest of drawers and […]
Orientalism
Linked to the current political events with the decline of the Ottoman Empire and the colonization, Orientalism grows during the 19th century and is characterized by an important occidental interest for foreign lands. First very present in literature and painting, Orientalism, thanks to the World’s fairs, soon inspires architecture and decorative arts, and gives a […]
Rocaille and Rococo
Invented by the decorators Oppenord, Meissonier and Pinault, the Rocaille ornaments are key elements of the Regence style and the Louis XV style. Shells and plants thus invade the decoration, transforming themselves according to the caprices of dreams into abstract and eventful forms. The Rocaille ornaments are hence the French expression, in the decorative arts, […]