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The wealth of the archaeological deposits of the Château de Marly site is as interesting as it is frustrating. The many exhumed fragments confirm the archival texts and the descriptions of the techniques used for the construction of the pavilions and for their interior decoration. On the other hand, and with few exceptions, the identification of architectural elements and their location inside often remain difficult because of their small size and their lack of defining characteristics. The systematic destruction of the buildings during the First Empire undoubtedly explains these small pieces.

Louis XIV conceived Marly as an unofficial residence to house the royal family and some guest courtiers for short stays. In respect of propriety, its simple décor and furnishings reflected its status as country house that was not involved in the expression of the dignity of the Crown. Gradually, the king set up tacit rules regarding the luxuriousness of the décor and furniture adopted by his successors throughout the eighteenth century in country homes, official or otherwise, belonging to the Crown.