Design for the decoration of a ceiling with circular medallions 1830 - 1897

Jules-Edmond-Charles Lachaise made this design for a ceiling decoration with circular medallions in the early 20th century. Lachaise's work invites us to consider the role of design within the broader social and cultural landscape of his time. Looking at the image, we can see the symmetry, balance, and the floral motifs which reflect the influence of the Beaux-Arts style, a movement that dominated Western art academies and architectural design. The image reflects France's deep history of decorative arts and its place within a culture of elite consumption. The design would have been intended to adorn the homes of the wealthy. Investigating archives of design schools, trade publications, and exhibition catalogues can reveal more about how artists like Lachaise operated within a complex network of institutions, markets, and social expectations. Ultimately, this design shows us how art is deeply embedded within specific social and institutional contexts.