The Good Life France Magazine November/December 2015 | Page 42

Dazzling decorations, gold panelling with delicate paintings, incredible furnishings, Napoleon’s throne ''nothing but four sticks of gilt wood” he called it. An incredible library, clocks and cupboards – this is a chateau that doesn’t let you down.

16th, 17th, 18th and 19th century styles and fashions co-exist and it works – perfectly. It’s a castle that is not just picture book history but a place where you really get a strong feeling of the people who once lived here.

In one room there is a bed which Marie-Antoinette commissioned especially for the room. She never got to sleep on it; she lost her head before she had the chance. The décor of Marie Antoinette’s rooms is so elegant and delicate that you can’t help imagining that it reflects her personality as well as her taste. Did she stand there and point out the intricate patterns to her ladies-in-waiting? Did she trace the patterns with her fingers, entranced by the pretty pictures? Did she dream her daughter would one day enjoy the rooms, unaware of the tragedy her family would endure.

Pics: top the Gallery of Diana which Napoleon turned into a library; top right the Queen's Boudoir, right details from the Queen's Boudoir.