Canapé after 1878

This Canapé is an engraving. It was published in Paris by V. Louqutin, as part of a series showcasing furniture designs. The image presents a double-chair, what was termed during the period a 'Canapé genre Henri II'. It offers us a glimpse into the world of French furniture design and the dissemination of taste through printed media. The reference to Henri II evokes the French Renaissance, a period of royal power and artistic patronage. The design reflects a revival of interest in historical styles, part of the wider 19th-century phenomenon of historicism. We can think about how this image circulated among artisans and potential clients, shaping their understanding of fashionable furniture. Trade catalogues like this one played a crucial role in the development of consumer culture in France. To understand its full significance, we can look into archival records, trade publications, and design manuals from the period. This helps us explore the relationship between art, commerce, and social life in 19th-century France.