num_pages: 392
description: A fascinating look at the splendor of the French court at Versailles through the eyes of its numerous visitors What was it like to visit one of the most magnificent courts of Europe? Based on a wealth of contemporary documents and surviving works of art this lavish book explores the experiences of those who flocked to the palace and grounds of Versailles when it was the seat of the French monarchy. Engaging essays describe methods of transportation the elaborate codes of dress and etiquette precious diplomatic gifts royal audiences and tours of the buildings and gardens. Also presented are the many types of visitors and guests who eagerly made their way to this center of power and culture including day-trippers and Grand Tourists European diplomats overseas ambassadors incognito travelers and Americans. Through paintings and portraits furniture tapestries carpets costumes and uniforms porcelain gold boxes sculpture arms and armor engravings and guidebooks Visitors to Versailles illuminates what travelers encountered at court and what impressions gifts and souvenirs they took home with them. Versailles continues to impress millions of tourists today just as it enchanted generations of ancien rgime visitors whose experiences are brought to life in this sumptuously illustrated volume. 
language: English
title: Visitors to Versailles: From Louis XIV to the French Revolution
publisher: Metropolitan Museum of Art