Décor Fleurs et Bois Rustiques. 19th century

This is Décor Fleurs et Bois Rustiques, an anonymous drawing on paper now residing at the Met. The drawing’s clean lines and delicate botanical depictions, point to a moment of burgeoning scientific classification and the aesthetic embrace of the natural world. But let’s consider what's embedded in this seemingly innocuous design. During the colonial period, botanical drawings played a crucial role in the project of empire. They were used to document, classify, and exploit the natural resources of colonized lands. The rustic wood and floral motifs speaks to both a romanticized vision of nature and an idealization of rural life, while in reality, the exploitation of natural resources and labor often came at the expense of marginalized communities. This design is an expression of control and consumption, inviting us to consider the complex relationship between aesthetics, power, and the environment. It’s a subtle reminder that even the most beautiful images can carry a complex history.