Uithangbord Jean Lamour, verz. Mannheimer. 1700 - 1800

This wrought iron sign was created by Jean Lamour, a master ironworker in France. The sign is a beautiful example of Rococo style, characterized by elaborate ornamentation, asymmetrical compositions, and themes drawn from nature. Think about the cultural context. In 18th-century France, signs like this were not merely functional; they were a form of public art. Guilds commissioned elaborate signs to advertise their trades and demonstrate their wealth and status. Lamour was a celebrated artist, who became famous as ironworker to Stanisław Leszczyński, the exiled King of Poland and father-in-law to Louis XV. This royal connection gave him considerable social standing, and it shows in the artistry and extravagance of his work. To better understand the significance of an artwork like this, scholars might consult guild records, period accounts of urban life, and collections of designs and pattern books that circulated among artisans. By considering these sources, we can better understand the social and cultural forces that shaped the production and reception of this sign.