Gabriel, Jacques Ange

Gabriel, Jacques Ange (zhäk äNzh gäbrēel') [key], 1698–1782, French architect of the classical tradition. Descendant of a long line of architects, he ranks as one of the most distinguished French architects of his century. His work is characterized by classical repose, purity of form, and restraint. In 1742 he succeeded his father, Jacques Gabriel (1667–1742), as first architect to the king. For 30 years he worked for Louis XV at Versailles, Compiègne, and other royal residences. In 1753 he designed Place Louis XV (now Place de la Concorde) in Paris. He designed also the twin palaces north of the square and (1748) the theater of the palace of Versailles. In 1751, Gabriel commenced the vast École militaire in Paris and in 1755 began work on the unfinished parts of the Louvre, which he later had to suspend. In 1768 he finished the Petit Trianon in the gardens of Versailles.

The Columbia Electronic Encyclopedia, 6th ed. Copyright © 2007, Columbia University Press. All rights reserved.

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