Early French Renaissance
France had been brought into contact with the new architecture through the Italian wars under Charles VIII, Louis XII, and Francis I.
The chief characteristic of the early French Renaissance is that the details of the new school were imposed on structures which were Gothic in general form.
Italian architects were employed by Francis I, and although in the many important buildings erected for him he preferred native workmen, Italians were retained to furnish designs and lead the new style. Leonardo da Vinci and Andrea del Sarto were both employed in the decoration of Fontainebleau.
No. 88. Wood Panelling. Early French Renaissance.
Fontainebleau, Chateau de Chambord, Chenonceaux sur Loire, Chateau de Madrid and the commencement of the Louvre were all due to Francis I, and the Italian influence was strengthened by the marriage of Henry II with Catharine di Medici.
No. 89. Stone Chimney-piece, Fontainbleau, Henry II Salon.