What could be more ingenious than using painted decor to add value to architecture?
The town of Versailles at its best!

In the 17th and 18th centuries, there was a shortage of limestone and facing brick was not produced. Masonry in millstone blocks was therefore coated in a plaster and lime mix with a red ochre dye to imitate brick, and daubed in yellow ochre to resemble stone. The fake brick joints were hollowed out and filled with white plaster!

Several art colleges continue the tradition of trompe l'oeil to this day: the Ecole d'Art Mural and the Ecole Jean Sablé. So keep your eyes peeled as you walk around the town!

If you are fond of art, many galleries welcome you to share their latest discoveries: from classic art to contemporary art, 3D sculptures, come and have a look!