Château de Coulon

English translation

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History

This château presents 16th century architecture inspired by Du Cerceau's models. Construction is dated between 1551 and 1563; it is attributed to Charles de Pisseleu, bishop of Condom from 1551 to 1559. But the dating may be later (late 16th century early 17th century). The building presents a longitudinal main dwelling between two pavilions in return on the garden side. It stood at the end of a rectangular platform and was surrounded by ditches now filled in. An earlier wing, to the west, was demolished or was never built. The absence of military apparatus proves that it had no defensive value but a residential and agricultural function. The north pavilion houses a cabinet decorated with trompe-l'oeil paintings, above low wainscoting. Between the columns supporting an architrave topped with a frieze and cornice, are placed panels imitating a textile or leather hanging. The frieze repeats the repertoire of motifs from grotesque borders of tapestries brought into fashion by the Fontainebleau School and disseminated by engraving. This decoration frames small gallant and bucolic scenes inscribed in cartouches. Verses, quotations or pastiches of Latin poets comment on these paintings. This château constitutes an interesting and rare example in Cher of rural châteaux, built or rebuilt in the late 16th century, after the return of peace.