André Charles Boulle (1642-1732)The Frenchman André Charles Boulle followed in his father's footsteps and became a cabinet maker. In 1672 he was appointed court artist and took up residence in the Louvre, the royal palace in Paris. He was in charge of a workshop with many employees. His workshop was famous for producing furniture with flower designs sophisticatedly executed in marquetry (inlay) with wood, metal, tortoiseshell and ivory. Many of the designs were Boulle's own, but designs by other artists were also produced. In 1715 Boulle handed his workshop over to his sons. Nevertheless he remained involved with the business. In the eighteenth century Boulle marquetry was famous. Even in the nineteenth century, designs from Boulle's workshop were still being copied. |
