1613–1700

André Le Nôtre

Born in a family of gardeners, Le Nôtre was a French landscape architect and the principal gardener of King Louis XIV of France. He is known for his two majors works: Vaux-le-Vicomte, where he worked with Le Brun and Le Vau; and Versailles, where he entered Louis XIV’s service in 1662. In 1658, he was named Controller-General of the King's gardens and was ennobled by the King in 1681. Le Nôtre's works represent best the French formal garden. He is the architect of the most beautiful 17th century gardens and made of Versailles his masterpiece.