In 1761, King Louis XV (1710-1774) commissioned architect Ange-Jacques Gabriel to design a modest palace set far back in the gardens of the Palace of Versailles as a place of respite, away from the pressures of the main palace court. It became known as the Petit Trianon.
Gabriel had previously worked with his father, Jacques V. Gabriel, on various decorative designs in Versailles. y were designed in the Rococo style, which had become increasingly elaborate over time. However, in the Petit Trianon, Ange-Jacques’s work took inspiration from the more reserved Classical Greek architecture.
Classical Greek architecture was defined by an overall simplicity, with an emphasis on symmetry, proportion, and simple geometry. Petit Trianon is arranged in a cuboid shape. Each fa莽ade is symmetrically made up of five vertically proportioned window bays that each included a rectangular lower window and a square upper window.
main fa莽ade is defined by four Corinthian columns, emphasizing the tall proportions of the three central window bays, creating an upright quality.
beauty of the Petit Trianon comes with its subtlety. plain walls emphasize the minimal and carefully expressed ornaments. se refined ornaments give an overall elegance to the fa莽ade.
In the age of the elaborate Rococo, Ange-Jacques had created a refreshing and refined example of the classical tradition and an early step toward what would become known as the neoclassical style.
A long, formal French garden leads and gives emphasis to the main fa莽ade of the Petit Trianon. (T. Garnier/Ch芒teau de Versailles)central projected bay, composed of four Corinthian columns, provides depth and focus to the fa莽ade. Sweeping window hoods and refined trims on the lower windows provide the structure with an elegant expression. (J.H.Smith/Cartio)As one draws closer to the building, the window and cornice ornamentation and the Corinthian column capitals (crowns) become prominent and invite one to admire the refined design and craftsmanship. (J.H.Smith/Cartio)side fa莽ades continue the rhythm and arrangement of the main fa莽ade, in a simplified manner. (J.H.Smith/Cartio)dimensional Corinthian columns on the main fa莽ade appear on the side fa莽ades in a simplified way as pilasters (flattened columns bonded to the wall). (J.H.Smith/Cartio)antechamber, or entry room opens out onto the estate garden. (T. Garnier/Ch芒teau de Versailles)main two floors of the Petit Trianon are arranged around a grand staircase. reserved colors and sculpted motifs help emphasize the ornamental wrought iron balustrade. (T. Garnier/Ch芒teau de Versailles)music room鈥檚 pastel green walls and white panelling provide a subtle backdrop for the gold framed mirrors, chandelier, and the red fabrics. (T. Garnier/Ch芒teau de Versailles)Reflective of a more restrained neoclassical interior, the monotone walls and ornamentation create a pure, serene setting for a spiritual space: the chapel. (T. Garnier/Ch芒teau de Versailles)Marie Antoinette’s apartment on the mezzanine floor that looks out over the English garden. (T. Garnier/Ch芒teau de Versailles)
Pezou : Petit Trianon of Versailles: A Garden Palace Retreat Away From the Royal Court
