In terms of decoration, the Second Empire (1852-1870) was dominated by a blend of the Louis XIV, Louis XV and Louis XVI styles. Despite being industrially produced, papier mâché furniture varnished in black and inlaid with mother-of-pearl, with Rococo lines inherited from the eighteenth century, gave an air of luxury to bourgeois homes. Thickly padded seats took over drawing rooms. In keeping with the hygienist ideas of Baron Haussmann, the floral theme was prevalent in the decoration of wallpaper, vases and furniture items. New rooms such as conservatories and winter gardens also appeared.

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