The following articles on French decorative arts — authored by Olivier Soustelle — were recently published by the Chubb Insurance group and are found online at www.chubbcollectors.com.
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Louis Style Case Furniture In 19th Century Paris: The Finer PointsFrench case furniture from the latter half of the nineteenth century, called "Napoleon III" production after the nation's emperor, was marked by its eclecticism and the revival of earlier styles. From the 1850s on, newly wealthy industrialists and middle class buyers alike swooned over the Louis revivals, which gave rebirth to styles in architecture and decoration first popular during the eighteenth century under the reigns of kings Louis XIV, Louis XV and Louis XVI. More »
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Out From Paris' Shadow: Eighteenth Century French Provincial FurnitureAntique enthusiasts may want to visit the Museum of Decorative Arts in Lyon or the Muséon Arlaten in Arles, the heart of Provence, the next time they travel to France. Both are filled with examples of the finest case furniture made in France's provinces during the eighteenth century. More »
