Siervazen met vogels 1721 - 1756

Jeremias Wachsmuth created this pair of designs for ornamental vases during the 18th century, a time marked by the rise of the Rococo style. Rooted in the opulence of the aristocracy, it was a style that was expressed through asymmetrical designs and playful ornamentation. In this print, we see the dizzying ornamentation, the naturalism of shells, and the graceful birds that populate the designs. The design feels extravagant, yet also captures something of the period’s fascination with natural science. The vases embody the performative aspect of wealth in the 1700s, when one’s social position was often displayed through elaborate objects and possessions. Consider how these designs would have appeared in the homes of the wealthy. They’re more than just decoration; they are markers of identity and status, reflecting the complex interplay between art, culture, and society.