|
The French Regency and Louis XV
The origins of the bombe chest can be traced back to the French Regency period. After Louis XIV died in 1715, his five year old great grandson was crowned the king of France. However, since Louis XV was too young to rule, Phillipe d'Orleans, nephew of the late Louis XIV, was named regent and ruled in his stead.
During this short time, French craftsmen and furniture-makers waivered from their strict adherence to the classical forms Louis XIV adored and created newer, more casual styles. As a result, furniture shapes became more bowed and round. The signature form of this period was the bombe commode, a stylish chest with a belly-outward curve. These bombe chests were beautifully lacquered with chinoiserie decoration.
|
|