The Louis XV style, also known as Rococo, was the rage during the reign of King Louis XV (1715-1774).  It has remained a timeless style, characterized by intricate detail, ornate curves and a romantic, playful aesthetic, as well as the use of lighter wood, inlays, painted finishes and gilding.  A love of elegance, comfort, intimacy, leisure and a cultivated social life with fine entertaining were characteristics of the time, reflecting the taste of the aristocracy and the king’s mistresses (Madame de Pompadour and Madame du Barry.)    Many items were created especially for women including vanities, slipper chairs and chaise lounges.  Some consider the Louis XV style to be the epitome, the Golden Age, of French furnishings.

 

Marble was considered a high-end material, associated with wealth and grandeur, reflecting the sophisticated tastes of the elite during periods like the Louis XV and Louis XVI eras.  The natural beauty of marble, with its unique veining and subtle luster, added a touch of elegance and visual interest to the furniture. French artisans often selected marble slabs for their color, veining, and durability, and carefully polished them to enhance their natural beauty. Marble is a naturally hard and dense stone, making it resistant to scratches, chips, and damage. It is also heat-resistant and easy to clean, making it a practical choice for surfaces like commodes and buffets, which were used for both storage and serving.  Marble tops provided a beautiful contrast to the intricately carved and often gilded wooden bases of French furniture. The thick overhanging tops also helped to accentuate the forms of the furniture pieces.