Artist:
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Artist Unknown
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Title:
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Grand Salon from the Hôtel de la Bouëxière
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Date:
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1733-1737
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Medium:
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Wood, paint, plaster, gilt, marble, iron
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Dimensions:
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190 5/8 x 349 1/2 x 230 3/16 in. (484.2 x 887.8 x 584.7 cm)
(measurements do not include door recesses)
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Credit Line:
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Gift of the Groves Foundation
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Location:
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Gallery 318
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In the 18th century, Paris's elite gathered in salons such as this one to converse, enjoy music and literature, and play games. The room's carved and gilded decoration reflects such pursuits. Trophies adorn the two curved walls, one devoted to music and theater, the other to hunting. Medallions on either side contain allegorical portraits of Africa, America, Europe, and Asia, each identified by a distinctive headdress. Other panels reference classical mythology, including Apollo, God of music and poetry. The cornice that crowns the paneling features frolicking putti and monkeys playing musical instruments.
The Institute's Grand Salon started life as the formal reception space in a mansion belonging to Jean Gaillard de La Bouexiere, a wealthy man from Brittany who pursued influential positions during the reign of Louis XV. After a painstaking restoration effort completed in 2005, the salon is a distinguished example of the regence and rococo styles popular during the 1730s.
Object Description
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Inscriptions:
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Classification:
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Architecture
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Physical Description:
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painted and giltwood, plaster, marble and iron
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Creation Place:
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Europe, France, , , Paris
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Accession #:
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83.147
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Owner:
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The Minneapolis Institute of Arts
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