Richly colored upholstery and embroidery abound, and surfaces are heavily inlaid with mother of pearl, thin wood veneers, marble, brass and ivory. These inlays are called Boulle work . The Regence period is one of transition to a softer style. This period marked the debut of the cabriole leg , mainly used in sofas and chairs. Stretchers disappear, and chests of drawers assume a more rounded shape.
Embellishment is reduced and concentrated on focal points rather than the entire surface.
Ormolu mounts accentuate the curved lines. Ornamentation is free and asymmetrical, based on scroll-like natural patterns. A typical piece is the bomb chest. The straight line returns, with an interest in classical architecture. Legs are straight once again, often fluted to resemble columns.