A craftsman works on the O'eil de Boeuf window at Le Petit Trianon, Versailles. The chateau was built in 1762 as a retreat for Louis XV, but became Marie-Antoinette's private domaine. Here she was able to escape prying eyes and whispers of jealous court observers and gossips at Versailles.
Before photographing the craftsman, I spoke to him in French, asking permission. I then showed him the first shot on my digital camera. He was so delighted, he asked if I'd like to take another - hence this photo. I was probably the only person who'd spoken to him all day, other than his co-workers.
Before I was told no photos were allowed, I managed to get this shot of the bust of Marie-Antoinette. It sits on the fireplace mantel in Le Petit Trianon's main salon. In 1789, the French people stormed the palace at Versailles and smashed the bust. It has been re-glued, deliberately to show the cracks. A skilled French artisan could repair the damage so that no cracks are visible.
Gilt fittings grace decorative double doors in the main salon at Le Petit Trianon.
A carriage displayed in a glass case under the stairway was enjoyed by Marie-Antoinette's two children.
These (and the next post's) photos of Versailles are just lovely. I'm glad you were quick with the button, before they nixed the photos! xo
Posted by: tinker | 17 April 2007 at 08:08
Now that I have the house to myself - I'm going to watch the latest movie.. I've been waiting waiting waiting!
I've missed out on all these great pictures!! You've been a busy little bee with your camera!! I need to bring Faith downstairs after her nap to look at these. You're our window to another side of the world.
xo
Posted by: hollibobolli | 16 April 2007 at 00:16
I loved the Movie Marie Antionette and this post enchants me to say the least!
Posted by: Jeanne | 15 April 2007 at 21:43
Your pictures of Versaille are such a treat Tara. The day I was there my camera ran out of film after two pictures and me with no backup roll. A trip to the giftshop and the purchase of a picture book solved the problem.
Posted by: AnnieElf | 15 April 2007 at 16:42
I still have Versailles on my list of places to visit when I come to Paris next.
I'm back home, and enjoy browsing my favorite blogs.
Posted by: Britt-Arnhild | 15 April 2007 at 10:31
oh! Thank you! What a charming picture of the painter, and how wonderful that you are so nice to talk to everyone. I just LOVE the carriage, what an exquisite piece!
Lidy
Posted by: FrenchGardenHouse | 15 April 2007 at 08:31
Great pictures! Thank you Tara. I haven't been to Versailles...but I will, it is only that I live in the "provinve" so, when I go to Paris...I stay there. I will tell you next time I go. Did you give the worker your blog adress? Kisses.
Posted by: Catalina | 15 April 2007 at 08:09
oh, thankyou your photos where fantastic, oh that childs carage was divine.
Posted by: joanneanderson | 15 April 2007 at 01:41
Tara..thank you so MUCH for sharing all this beauty and history! I have been in dreamland ! hee hee! Gorgeous and a fabulous tour!
Posted by: pam aries | 15 April 2007 at 00:53
It looks so beautiful there! I love the photo of the painter and he looks delighted to have his picture taken!
Posted by: Lynda | 14 April 2007 at 21:41
Hey, thank you for the tour ... I was curious after hearing you talk of this visit :)
Posted by: Di | 14 April 2007 at 21:27
Oh thank you! I love Versailles and it's one of the places I'll bring the girl when/if we spend time this summer in Paris. I loved these interior and of course the exterior shots - those gardens are to die for.
Posted by: kristen | 14 April 2007 at 20:56
How wonderful it must be to wander the same halls that Marie did in her day. I'm so happy you share your journeys with us.
Posted by: Literary bohemian | 14 April 2007 at 20:44
We spent a magical day at Versailles, one of my favorite memories of our short week in Paris. In the middle of the day there was a great downpour, which only lasted about 15 minutes, but after that we had much of the place to ourselves, including the Trianon. Thanks for sharing.
Posted by: Donna | 14 April 2007 at 20:24
Perfect timing I just saw the latest movie about her. I loved the costumes! XXOO
Posted by: Tammy | 14 April 2007 at 20:21
Tara, thank you, thank you for posting these pictures of my favorite corner of Versailles, le petit trianon. xoxoxoxo
Posted by: Colette | 14 April 2007 at 19:42
The pictures of the craftsman...he is so cute! And I really love that carriage...much different from the one I had!!
Posted by: mymelange | 14 April 2007 at 17:22
Gorgeous photos and I especially love the one of the craftsman ~ I think you made his day!! JP
Posted by: JanePoe (aka Deborah) | 14 April 2007 at 16:09
Gorgeous I keep thinking of my beloved Mom when you post. She loved everything that you share as do I. Love Jeanne
Posted by: Jeanne | 14 April 2007 at 15:54
Oh, the light in these is absolutely delicious! I've only ever been to Versailles in fall and winter, so I'm charmed by the way it looks in spring light. Thank you for sharing these!
Posted by: Laura | 14 April 2007 at 12:16