Publisher's Synopsis
Imbued with over eight centuries of history, A Day at Château de Fontainebleau offers unique historical insight into the lives of over thirty-four French sovereigns who inhabited and enhanced this great architectural monument. A visit to the exceptionally well-preserved Fontainebleau-one of the few royal residences left intact during the French Revolution-offers unparalleled access to French history, art, and architecture. From François I to Napoleon, and from Marie-Antoinette to Joséphine, Fontainebleau sweeps the reader back in time to experience the traditions and customs of great figures throughout the history of France. Comprised of more than 1,500 rooms on 130 acres of parkland and gardens, and situated thirty-seven miles south of Paris, Fontainebleau welcomes more than 500,000 visitors a year. This book features superb images illustrating the artisanal decorative details of the château and the spectacular works of art still housed within; it includes exclusive access to archival documents and numerous rooms and galleries that are not open to the public. From hunting excursions to the grand parties and spectacles that took place at Fontainebleau, A Day at Château de Fontainebleau is a private invitation inside a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of France's most beautiful historical monuments. Exquisite photographs by Eric Sander trace the French ruling dynasties-Capétians, Valois, Bourbons, Bonaparte and Orléans- that made their mark on this historical estate. The photographs offer rare access to parts on the chateau usually closed to the public, including the Napoléon III's office, Marie-Antoinette's Turkish-style boudoir, Madame de Maintenon's apartments, the Imperial Theater, the medieval keep, François I's Cour Ovale, Henri IV's Gallery of Stags, the Salle des Colonnes, Diana Gallery, and many rare objects from the impeccably well-preserved monument.
