March 2026
How to recognise the Louis XV style?
Curves, bombé shapes and bronzes: the simple markers of a style that defined the 18th century.
The Louis XV style is first recognised by its line. Everything is curved: the bombé front, the movement of the legs, the shaped apron. Sharp angles disappear in favour of a continuous drawing.
The woods used are often walnut, tulipwood or kingwood veneers, laid in quarter patterns. When old, the patina reveals irregular nuances that modern reproductions rarely achieve.
Finally, the bronzes: handles, escutcheons, corner mounts. On a period piece they are chased then gilded, and their wear logically follows the gestures of use.
