Category Archives: Madam Sevigne

Versailles As a Pyramid

Posted on September 3, 2013 by versaillesgossip, before and after Francis Ponge

This fountain is called Pyramid; and it represents cornucopia, or to cut the symbolism, the apotheosis of a meal, usually the dessert. I had already mentioned the pyramids of fruit, one of them so famously dropped in the presence of … Continue reading →

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A Suicidal Cook

Posted on October 11, 2012 by versaillesgossip, before and after Francis Ponge

I have discussed already the suicidal painter, Lemoyne; now comes the time to address the suicidal cook Vatel. It is pretty much the same story, for both of them were failing to meet the standards to which their vocation aspired; … Continue reading →

Posted in Court, Courtiers, Louis XIV, Madam Sevigne, Napoleon | Leave a comment

Difficult Beauty

Posted on July 3, 2012 by versaillesgossip, before and after Francis Ponge

“It is true,” wrote Madame Sevigné, “that men have certain privileges with regard to ugliness, but it is also true that Monsieur Pellisson abused those.” There is, however, a beautiful story often told about Paul Pellisson. Beginning 1661 this unfortunate … Continue reading →

Posted in Court, Courtiers, Fouquet, Madam Sevigne, Nicolas Fouquet, Versailles | Leave a comment

Madam Sévigné, la Femme de Lettres

Posted on May 20, 2012 by versaillesgossip, before and after Francis Ponge

“Her eye color varies and, the eyes being the mirror of the soul, nature  itself tells you not to rely on her too much,” wrote Bussy-Rabutin in his novel about his sister-in-law, Madame Sévigné. “Had a pair of corns sprung … Continue reading →

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The Food Marathon At Chateau Versailles

Posted on July 29, 2011 by versaillesgossip, before and after Francis Ponge

The Salon of Abundance shows us the picture of the big nef of Louis XIV. This fancy holder of the king’s victuals was waiting for the royal dinner in the Guards Room and all the courtiers saluted it on their … Continue reading →

Posted in Chateau Versailles, Court, Courtiers, Duke of Orleans, Louis XIV, Madam Sevigne, Princess Palatine, Saint-Simon | Tagged , , , , , , | Leave a comment