François Mansart
- Born:
- January 23, 1598, Paris, France
- Died:
- September 23, 1666, Paris, France
- Nationality:
- French
- Profession(s):
- Architect
Early Life and Education
- Came from a family of builders and sculptors.
- Received early training in stonemasonry.
- Largely self-taught in architecture, relying on practical experience and the study of existing structures.
Career and Major Achievements
- Pioneered the French Baroque style in architecture.
- Developed the Mansard roof, a four-sided gambrel-style hip roof characterized by two slopes on each side, with the lower slope being steeper than the upper. This design maximized usable attic space.
- Known for his precision, refinement, and pursuit of classical ideals.
- His patrons included wealthy and influential members of French society.
Notable Works
- Château de Balleroy (begun 1626)
- Église Sainte-Marie-des-Anges (1634-1636)
- Château de Maisons-Laffitte (1630-1651)
- Val-de-Grâce Church, Paris (begun 1645, dome completed by Philippe and Jean-Baptiste Lemuet). While the initial design was Mansart's, later architects modified it.
Legacy and Impact
François Mansart's innovative designs, particularly the Mansard roof, had a profound impact on architectural styles throughout Europe and beyond. The term "Mansard" became synonymous with this specific roof design. The study of the construction de francois mansart biography reveals his dedication to classical principles and his significant contributions to the development of French Baroque architecture.