Boulle, André-Charles, the elder

Boulle is considered the first prominent French ébéniste and was the most highly regarded Louis XIV designer and furniture maker; he is particularly noted for his work in gilt bronze. His work is characterized by its monumental architectural forms, its unprecedented elaborate marquetry, and its gilt bronze mounts, especially mounts depicting subjects from classical mythology. Boulle-style furniture continued to be made throughout the 18th century and into the 19th century, especially during the Second Empire. French cabinet-maker. Comment on works: Cabinet-maker; Ebony artist; painter; sculptor