What body of estate representation was in France?

Estates the representative body in France appeared during the reign of King Philip the Fair in 1302 and was called the States General. They were a collection of three estates, which represented the clergy, aristocracy and wealthy townspeople. The main purpose of this body was to vote taxes, which were introduced by the king to replenish the treasury. The States General met irregularly, but only at moments of severe tension for the state. From the beginning of the 17th century to 1789, they were never convened.