This delightful period of Franco-Italian art came to a close toward the end of the reign of François I, when a purification of the style took place, resulting in the Henri II style of 1547-89. The structure of the furniture is modified in accordance with Renaissance principles, and the ornament is perfected. Pilasters are no longer decorated with grotesques but are properly fluted and display a capital and base. The chair, which under François I kept its massive paneled form, began to grow somewhat lighter, as the chair of box-like form gradually yields to the chair with an open frame. First the side pieces were removed, freeing the arms. Next, the back became lower. The legs are simply square or columnar, the latter having a molding suggesting a base and capital, and are joined close to the floor with substantial stretchers.
at