Palais Garnier Grand Foyer: Gilding and Social Theater

In the grand foyer, Paris sees itself. Gilding, mirrors, and painted ceilings turn intermission into social theater.

✨ Program and Play

• Mirror walls multiply presence.
• Gilded frames conduct light.
• Ceiling allegories connect to music.

🧪 Gold Leaf Quick Math

Estimating mass $m$ of gold leaf covering area $A$ with thickness $t$:

$$m approx ho_{ ext{Au}}, A, t$$

With $ ho_{ ext{Au}} approx 19{.}3, ext{g/cm}^3$, tiny thickness still yields visual richness.

Intermission is the mirror of the city—light conducts society.

Stand near a chandelier; watch warmth move across gilded frames.