How Decorative Arts boosted the 17th century French Economy.

In 17th century France  Decorative Arts were uplifting the economy in impressive ways. In almost all cases the Monarchs and courts would commission items like silk gowns, elaborate wood furniture, porcelain, and complicated tapestries. To make there items painters and sculptors would draft models and send them over to craftsmen who would then make all of the work and send it to the patron which created a social hierarchy where painters and the people making the models were more highly respected because of their educational backgrounds, where as craftsmen learned their trade in workshops and were less respected politically than the artists. In this system there were many jobs due to high demand from the royal women who “could not” be seen in the same dress twice so they were constantly requesting new pieces from their Marchand de modes- essentially designers or fashion merchants. This high demand for goods created many jobs for artists and craftsmen specifically but also created jobs for those who transported goods or helped in workshops. The royal courts created a new path for the arts because with heavy waves of new workers you could come up with more elaborate designs and with more elaborate designs you needed more advanced tools and dyes. Overall the high demand completely boosted the economy and arts community in this period.

Esther before Ahasuerus: Esther falls at the king's feet, 1774-78, Jean François deTroy, (French, 1679-1752) (cartoon creator) [painter]; Pierre-François Cozette, (French, b.1714-d.1801) (workshop) [weaver]; Maurice Jacques,(French, 1712-1784) (author of design, border) [painter]

In gallery of palace with columns, rich hanging draperies & an incense burner, Ahasuerus stands up from his throne & holds out his scepter to Esther as she swoons on the shoulder of one of her maids; 3 old men seated (R) & others looking at a papyrus on t