Red paste paper with crisscross and wavy line pattern 1700 - 1800

This sheet of red paste paper, adorned with a crisscross and wavy line pattern, was made by an anonymous artist. As an object, paste paper represents both artistry and utility, often used for bookbinding or decorative purposes. The anonymity of the artist invites us to consider the labor and artistry of those whose names have been lost to history, particularly women and people of color, who have historically been excluded from the art historical canon. The abstract, repetitive designs speak to a sense of rhythm and order, perhaps reflecting the artist's attempt to create beauty within the constraints of their circumstances. The choice of a reddish-brown hue might evoke feelings of warmth, earthiness, or even a subtle sense of urgency. Consider how this piece, seemingly simple, might carry complex narratives of identity, labor, and the enduring human desire for creative expression.