Encyclopedia of Antiques

Louis XVI

Louis XVI as the grandson of Louis XV. He married Marie Antoinette of Austria when he was a prince, and when he took the throne two years late she was influential in furniture styles. She hired the designers and cabinetmakers. 

The chairs have straight, tapered legs with much carving. Padded arm rests are popular, and the backs are square or medallion shaped sometimes with cane and with cane in the seats. Favorite woods were tulip, satinwood, rosewood, walnut, and mahogany. Wreaths, floral motifs to include the Marie Antoinette basket of flowers, and painted pastoral scenes were used. Striped fabrics were most popular in upholstery.
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