Design for Panel Decoration 1828 - 1840

J. Hulme made this design for panel decoration in the 19th century. Hulme here presents a sophisticated drawing for upper-class interior decoration, with naturalistic floral designs on top and highly stylized Rococo patterns below. The image uses the visual codes of luxury that were typical of Europe and North America at this time. In the 1800s, interior design was an important way for elites to display their wealth and education, especially in urban centers. Schools of design, such as the British Government School of Design founded in 1837, played a key role in creating national styles. This panel seems to be influenced by those design schools. By examining design patterns like these alongside other social data, art historians can explore the ways images participate in the construction of social status.