Reign of Louis XV (1715–1774)

Although the Italian Renaissance influenced the French Baroque, during the Rococo, a uniquely French style blossomed. The King’s mistress Madame de Pompadour’s taste greatly influenced interiors. To satisfy her, craftsmen created specialty rooms for every conceivable activity, tea drinking, music, conversation, etc. and designed suitable furniture, including comfortable seating made for sitting or reclining in for long periods of time. It’s no coincidence that King Louis XV is seated in this portrait. In contrast to robust muscular Baroque curves, the less substantial feminine Rococo chair legs curve gently.