LOUIS XIV

Louis XIV style is without any doubt the most distinguished and sumptuous for its decorative richness and impeccable taste. The wealth in the use of materials such as: gold, marble, crystal and gilded hand chiseled bronze is unparalleled. Ornament is abundant, but never overcharged. The quality of craftsmanship during this period is considered to be the highest ever in the history of French decorative arts.

The most common decorative elements in this period are: The sun, shells, mask with rays (symbol of the Sun King) along with the “L” crossing each other as well as the use of military symbols like helmets. Plants are also used in the designs, specially laurel and acanthus leaves.

Garlands of flowers are also frequent. The use of symmetry and straight lines will later become a great contrast between the style of Louis XIV and the later Regency and Louis XV periods.