Belvédère du Petit Trianon, Neoclassical garden pavilion in Versailles, France
The Belvédère du Petit Trianon is a neoclassical garden building with an octagonal exterior and a circular interior space, topped by a lead dome. The structure sits within a landscaped garden setting that includes artificial rock formations and water features.
Architect Richard Mique designed this garden building between 1778 and 1781 for Queen Marie-Antoinette as part of her private Petit Trianon estate. The structure was created during a period when the queen was actively shaping her personal garden retreat.
The pavilion served as a place where Marie-Antoinette hosted musical gatherings and entertained guests. The interior displays elaborate stucco work and a painted ceiling that reflects the queen's artistic tastes.
The building is visible from the garden paths and can be viewed from outside, though access to the interior may vary depending on opening conditions. It is best explored as part of a broader walk through the Versailles gardens.
Eight stone sphinxes carved by sculptor Joseph Deschamps guard the corners and sides of the pavilion. These ornamental sentries reflect Marie-Antoinette's fascination with exotic artistic styles.
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