Encyclopedia of Antiques

Louis XiV

This period presented more formal furniture—shall we say, palace-type. Craftsmen, foreign as well as French, were consulted in the manufacture of this period furniture. Louis XIV is also referred to as Baroque because of the strong Italian influence. Upholstery was of the finest fabrics, with brilliant reds, golds, and greens predominating. Backs of chairs were straight and high. Decorations were in veneers, carvings, paintings, metal, and inlay. Chestnut, walnut, ebony, and oak were the woods used.
Log In