E-18: French Salon of the Louis XIV Period, 1660-1700 c. 1937

Here is a miniature French Salon of the Louis XIV Period, constructed between 1660 and 1700, made by Narcissa Niblack Thorne. The first impression is one of elaborate symmetry and restrained opulence. The pale green walls and ornate gold detailing exude a sense of order and refinement. This meticulous recreation speaks volumes about the values of the period it represents. The architectural composition, with its balanced arrangement of columns, niches, and decorative moldings, reflects a desire for harmony and control. The symmetry isn't just visual; it reinforces the era's emphasis on hierarchy and social structure. Consider the miniature scale. Does it diminish the grandeur, or does it intensify our focus on detail and craftsmanship? Scale is a crucial element here, creating a world within a world that invites scrutiny and contemplation. It allows us to examine the structure of a society through the lens of its material culture. In essence, this miniature salon is not merely a static display; it is a symbolic representation of power, taste, and the complex interplay between form and social meaning.