"Refurnishing Versailles: the Impossible Challenge" with Christophe Leribault

Join Christophe Leribault in the Great Gallery for a lecture about "Refurnishing Versailles: the Impossible Challenge" part of the Susan "Sue" Serrott White Memorial Lecture in Decorative Arts & Design History.

Sunday, June 22 at 1:00PM–2:30PM
No registration required.

The Château de Versailles, as envisioned by King Louis XIV in the 17th century, can be considered a total work of art. Architecture, painting, and sculpture go hand in hand with landscape, music, dance, design, water displays—even the sun itself. The ensemble, still as spectacular as ever for visitors, is nevertheless difficult to fully grasp today: the king and his successors constantly modified, enlarged, and updated everything. The dispersal of the château’s entire contents at public auction during the French Revolution should have marked the definitive end of this Baroque dream.

Since the late 19th century, every effort has been made to reassemble the pieces of this jigsaw, refurnish the palace, and recreate a lost unity—however chimerical that goal may be. Methods have evolved, and the complexity of re-furnishing has led to many adjustments between theory and practice. This fascinating undertaking will be analyzed and explained, with all its successes and failures—for it is far more than just a luxury shopping spree in the footsteps of Queen Marie-Antoinette.

Individuals with disabilities: Please indicate if you need accommodations, assistance, or appropriate modifications to fully participate in this event by contacting Access Initiatives at YWNjZXNzIHwgdG9sZWRvbXVzZXVtICEgb3Jn. While we strive to provide everyone with a positive visitor experience, last-minute requests may not be accommodated. We kindly ask that requests be made at least three days prior to the event. Thank you.

More information: https://toledomuseum.org/events/events-info/sue-white-memorial-lecture-2025

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