Design for a Clasp or Buckle 17th - 18th century

Editor: This is a delicate graphite drawing called "Design for a Clasp or Buckle," dating from the 17th or 18th century. The artist is unknown. It's interesting to see a preparatory sketch like this, revealing the intricate design process of decorative art. What do you make of this level of ornamentation? Curator: Ornamentation is a bit of a loaded term, isn’t it? I think about Coco Chanel who allegedly said: "Before you leave the house, look in the mirror and take one thing off". Here, nothing’s been taken off! Every curve seems to be embellished. We see that it includes faces and what seem to be botanic flourishes... The Baroque style often features complex and flamboyant details, it isn't just about decoration. Can you feel the hand of the artist trying to balance symmetry with, perhaps, pure whimsy? Editor: Absolutely! The little face at the top seems almost like a signature, or an assertion of the artist's presence. And the tiny face just below it! I had not noticed that! Curator: And how do you feel about it as a whole? What might its purpose have been in the big, historical picture? Do you sense its intended scale? Think about a piece of jewelry. A belt buckle, or maybe an elaborate closure on a book… Editor: That helps! I guess it does help to visualize its scale when we consider its purpose... I appreciate the artist’s ability to harmonize such varied motifs in such a restricted area, whether for bookbinding, furniture, or fashion accessory! Thank you for illuminating this. Curator: And thank you for noticing it! It's these quiet pieces that often hold the loudest conversations with history.