The Louis XIV style

A bit of history…

Between 1661 and 1715, when Louis XIV of the Bourbon Dynasty, also known as the Sun King, came to the throne of France, the classicistic vision of art was emphasized, in contrast with the more ostentatious trends of the Roman Baroque that prevailed in Italy (Bernini’s proposal for redesigning the Louvre was rejected by Louis XIV).

The Baroque as it was practiced in Italy was not in French taste so, thanks to the propaganda and great architectural works, the Sun King launched a vast program designed for the glorification of France.

Beforehand France imported trends and artists from Italy, the architects started outlining a relationship between architectural space and furnishing, which developed with significant complexity.

The most striking example of the Louis XIV style is the magnificent Palace of Versailles; originally a hunting lodge, it was skilfully transformed during the reign of the Sun King into the beautiful palace for parties and dances that we all know.

The features that distinguish the Louis XIV style are:

• Solemn, strict and symmetrical forms.
• Heavy brocades of red and gold.
• Gilded furniture in hardwood rich with inlays.
• Tops in marble or alabaster always with a layer underneath.

How to make a Louis XIV room really unique?

Linea Calì comes to the aid of all architects and interior designers with its precious handles in brass created ad hoc to be placed in stylish surroundings.

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