Marie-Antoinette’s Private Chambers

The queen’s formal apartment had rooms for court ceremony. Behind it, a more compact arrangement provided places to read, receive a few guests and attend to personal needs. The decoration changed with successive occupants. Many of the interiors now reflect the choices of Marie-Antoinette, queen of France in the years before the Revolution. Restoration has recovered painted finishes, gilding and textiles in these rooms. A small receiving room could carry elaborate decoration, while service spaces were more restrained. Their relationship with the State Bedchamber explains how the queen moved between public ceremony and a smaller household. A separately guided visit provides access to these interiors.