Monday 10 June 2013

Louis XVI's Wardrobe

Louis XVI did not change much at Versailles but this particular room is an exception. The door is hidden and leads from the King's Bedchamber - it was created on the order of Louis XV in 1738 but was at this time half the size of the wardrobe it would become. The beautiful golden wood-work is the work of Jean-Siméon and Jean-Hugues Rousseau who would finish the room in 1788 (it would be their last work done to Versailles). The architect was Richard Mique. The wood-work includes emblems with symbols relating to the navy, trade, agriculture, science and the arts. The white and gold-style was very popular at this time which is why some of the other rooms looks similar to this one.
Thanks to two large windows (facing the Cour des Cerfs) the room is well-lit. The floor is of the same wooden pattern that can be seen through the entire château. When the revolution hit France this room was spared complete destruction. The only things that were changed was the removal of the royal insignias and arms as well was the large mirrors - the mirrors were probably sold. The fireplace is the same as was installed when the room was first created; the golden decorations were made by Pierre Gouthière. Behind one of the doors there is a toilet!


Voilà - a toilet!




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