French Art and Architecture

This era included the 17th and early 18th century and during this time, art work and architecture became much more exaggerated and exuberant. Classical antiquity was the backbone of this artistic movement, along with a certain amount of rationalism. Some of the most prominent artists of the time included landscape painters Claude Lorrain and Nicolas Poussin and artists such as Simon Vouet, Philippe de Champaigne, George de la Tour, and the Le Nain brothers. In architecture, it was François Mansart who excelled.

This movement reached its peak during the reign of Louis XIV, also known as the Sun King. This astute monarch realized the political power that lay in art and went about creating a very impressive public image. Thus, France's political and artistic influence across Europe during this time was very pronounced. An example of the Sun King's contribution toward his public image can be seen in the magnificent Palace of Versailles.

This absolute monarch founded many art institutions and academies, where art could flourish, such as the Gobelins tapestry factory and The French Academy.