VERSAILLES: SPECIAL EDITION

Versailles: From Louis XIV to Jeff Koons. Welcome to the most storied palace in the world, the glittering Château de Versailles. Recounting the most important historical, social, and cultural milestones of Versailles, beginning with the original proposal for a modest hunting lodge requested by Louis XIII in 1623, this volume encompasses the expansive property, from the palace and gardens to the Grand Trianon and the Queen’s Hamlet.

From the first great constructions under Louis XIV, to its reimagining by Louis-Philippe in 1837 as a museum dedicated to all the glories of France, Versailles has truly seen many momentous occasions, including diplomatic summits, scientific advancements, and renowned visitors over the centuries, from Mozart, Benjamin Franklin and Queen Victoria to Fred Astaire and the Kennedys, not to mention exhibitions of today’s great artists, beginning with Jeff Koons in 2008.

Lavishly illustrated with archival images and beautiful photography, Versailles: From Louis XIV to Jeff Koons features insightful texts by Catherine Pégard, president of the Château de Versailles, with the collaboration of Mathieu da Vinha, scientific director of the Château de Versailles Research Center, revealing all the stories that have unfolded within this glorious monument.

Signed by the author Catherine Pegard, this very exclusive version is presented in a velvet clamshell with a sculpted medallion of Louis XIV placed in the front of its case. The book will be limited to 100 copies and will include with each purchase, a private tour of Versailles led by a palace curator, including rooms not open to the general public (see FAQs for more details).

In an effort to preserve the historical grandeur and beauty of Versailles, Assouline will donate 25% of each special edition purchased to the Château de Versailles. An impressive and magnificent addition to any library, this book also comes with an exclusive complimentary blue Assouline tote as well as white gloves to keep it pristine.

234 pages • 200 illustrations • English language • Released in November 2020 • 40 x 47,5 x 7,8 cm • 13,6 Kg