French Renaissance

The French style was based on religion and political history of eras and led by their leaders. During this time the rulers influenced most of pervasive in Renaissance France.  The Royal “taste” is what determined the design styles. French was central to the Romanesque and Gothic Style. The Gothic period gave birth to more masterpieces than any other country. Between the Gothic and the Renaissance France suffered from difficult times.  The Black Death hit France in the middle of the 14^th century. Hundred years’ war was also during this time period, which led to almost destroying Frances feudal nobility. 

The decorator had a very complex job when it came to designing a luxurious room that was consistent and harmonious.  Supervising and implementing the task required a new type of professional, which is the ornamaniste or decorator. This position required a person that could not only conceive an interior design, but also through the process of “engraving” explain the design to a client. The decorator supervised the artisans to produce the highest quality design.

Architecture in France didn’t have a need for new religious structure instead they built palaces and wineries. The exteriors became very important, but the interiors did not reflect the exterior style. The weather required steep roofs, many chimneys, and large windows. Roofs often had two slopes with dormer windows. They used mansard roofs that were created by Francois Mansart, a French Baroque architect.

Chateau Chambord was constructed by Francois I and with the help of Leonardo Da Vinci. It was a royal hunting lodge in the Lorie Valley. It has 444 rooms, 84 staircases, 365 chimneys; the estate is 14,300 acres of forest, lakes and grasslands enclosed by 22 mile-long wall.it is considered the largest and most majestic of the Chateaus. It was a meeting place for Francois I and Leonardo Da Vinci.

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https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HziwBRrFqY4