French Baroque Architecture

Terminology

• French art historians don't use "Baroque" for French architecture; styles are named after rulers (e.g., Louis XIII, XIV, XV).

French Architecture vs. Italian Baroque

• French architecture rejects the elaborate style of Italian Baroque.
• Emphasizes classicism to strengthen the monarchy's power.
• Example: Chateau de Chambord in the Loire Valley.

Historical Context

• Loire Valley: Historical region with over a thousand chateaus.
• Significant building activity since the 12th century BCE.
• Chateau sites often on former feudal strongholds.

Notable Architects

• Francois Mansart
  • Known for working at the end of Louis XIII's reign and into Louis XIV's.
  • Inspired by Louis IV.
  • Developed the Mansard roof style.

Key Architectural Sites

Chateau de Chambord

• Mansard Roof
  • Characteristics: Double pitch, high, and symmetrical.
• Interior Design
  • Classical references: Columns, a string course, lunettes, and sculptures.

The Louvre

• Long history: Fort, prison, chateau, palace, museum.
• Baroque expansion (1655-1670).
• Notable features: Mansard roof, classical colonnade, and I. M. Pei's glass pyramid.

Palace of Versailles

• Initially a hunting lodge, expanded significantly by Louis XIV.
• Served political purposes: Centralized administration.
• Noteworthy expansions:
  • 1st enlargement in 1660.
  • Court moved in 1677.
  • Workforce of 36,000 during construction.
  • Features a church, opera house.
• Hall of Mirrors
  • Designed by Hardouin-Mansart and Le Brun.
  • Famous for crystal chandeliers and mirrored walls.
  • Used for receptions, dances, and state affairs.

Gardens of Versailles

• Known for symmetry, fountains, formal gardens, and hydraulic engineering.
• System to activate fountains as the king walked.
• Grottoes and secret places for courtly intrigues.

Life at Versailles

• Court life was intense and stressful.
• Marie Antoinette sought escape in smaller retreats.
  • Built a small country house to avoid court pressures.

Conclusion

• French Baroque architecture reflects the power and influence of the monarchy.
• It set the stage for later architectural developments and historical events like the French Revolution.