The clean and classical designs and motifs of the Louis XVI style are inspired by the reign of Louis XVI of France (1774–1793). Alternatively known as Louis Seize, the Louis XVI style initially corresponded with a re-emergence of interest in Ancient Roman civilization, a growing popularity of Enlightenment philosophy, and was first supported by such tastemakers of the time as Marie Antoinette and Madame du Barry. It also marked a return to the grand style of the popular monarch Louis XIV, and employment of the style in furnishings and décor today evokes the same regal sophistication and grace. Favoring fluted, geometric leg shapes on furniture, classical columns and straight lines – and omitting such organic shapes as the cabriole – the style is direct and confers an air of grand, stately elegance.