The French Country House celebrates what the French call l'art de vivre (“the art of good living”) within the intimacy of private dwellings deep in the countryside. Here are places of retreat—old manor houses, small châteaux, stud farms, even a former convent—that, because of their great age and accumulated memories, are beloved by their owners and provide no end of delight for family and friends. Each country house is a treasure trove of history, with beautiful furnishings as well as family albums, faded love letters, attics full of old toys, fancy dresses, retired pianos, left-over brocades and wallpapers—even libraries hidden at the tops of towers. With 220 photographs in full color—illustrating rooms from the salon to the kitchen below and the attic above, together with details of silver, crystal, tapestries, paintings, and much more—The French Country House is rich in the colors, textures, and history of these treasured homes. Franco- philes as well as lovers of décor, architecture, and gardens will be captivated by this inside look at life in the French countryside.

Christiane de Nicolay-Mazery, an auctioneer, collector, and journalist, specializes in French art de vivre and the history of old families. Her books include The Finest Houses of Paris and The French Chateau: Lifestyle and Tradition.