MANSART, François
(b. 1598, Paris, d. 1666, Paris)

Interior view

1642-50
Photo
Château de Maisons, Maisons-Lafitte (Yvelines)

The Château de Maisons is the most complete work surviving from the hand of François Mansart and gives a better idea than any other of his genius as an architect. In 1642 René de Longueil decided to build a new château on his estate and, having called in Mansart, appears to have given him a completely free hand. The main structure seems to have been finished in 1646, but the decoration may have extended over many years.

The Château de Maisons is the only building by Mansart in which the decoration of the interior survives.

The photo shows the dining room.