Louis XIV

A design period which glorified and enforced the rule of the King of France by the same name between 1643 and 1715. The style includes three distinct periods. The first third of the period drew heavy influence from Italian Baroque design and the style of the previous king, Louis XIII, employing large, masculine, symmetrical forms. Mahogany and oak were favored as materials. As the period continued, the style became more classically ostentatious and decorative and was characterized by large, ornately carved, gilt pieces. The end of the period popularized ironwork and marquetry as finishing techniques, employed a variety of fantastical forms, and included arabesque, coquille, and grotesque designs. This period also saw the popularization of several common furniture varieties, including the commode, console table, and canape sofa, among others.

Cornucopia

A cornucopia is a decorative motif that dates back to ancient Greece. The cornucopia is a symbol of fertility and abundance. The motif originated in the shape of a curved goat’s horn that is filled or overflowing with fruits, grains, and flowers. The cornucopia motif was especially popular during the Baroque and Rococo periods. The cornucopia is also referred to as a Horn Of Plenty.

Gesso

A white paint created by combining plaster of paris, gypsum, or chalk with a white glue. It is used to prepare various surfaces for oil painting and is treated most often as a base coat, though it is sometimes left decoratively as a primary finish on wooden furniture. As a finish, it works best on porous woods and creates a chalky, gray/white tone. It may also be cast to make repeating ornamental forms in relief to be applied to wood panels, plaster surfaces, etc.