The marble workers employed by the King of France certainly never reached the heights of fame and renown enjoyed by painters, sculptors, architects or cabinetmakers in the 17^th century. But despite this fact, these craftsmen were essential to several of the greatest works of the 17^th and 18^th centuries. This “history of marble” is based on ancient sources, documents conserved in the French National Archives and the study of works. Exploring both the material and the challenges of its supply as well as the men who crafted it and the decors they produced - which composed veritable works of polychrome art - Versailles en ses marbres (Versailles in marble) provides a fresh insight into the decoration that made the glory and beauty of Louis XIV’s residences.

Sophie Mouquin
with the editions Arthena, 2018
24 x 32 cm, 464 pages
ISBN : 978 2 90323 961 9