Zes traphekken 1745

Carl Albert von Lespilliez created "Zes traphekken," an engraving, offering six distinct designs for stair railings. Born in the early 18th century, Lespilliez lived in a society rigidly stratified by class. His designs reflect the tastes of the aristocracy, who sought to display their status through elaborate architectural details. The intricate ironwork speaks volumes about the era's values, where artistry and craftsmanship served as symbols of power. Note the curves and embellishments, a language of wealth, and a clear statement about who could afford such luxuries. But beyond mere decoration, these railings reveal a deeper narrative of control and separation. Stairs, after all, facilitate movement between spaces, yet these ornate barriers suggest a desire to regulate access, a physical manifestation of social hierarchies. The emotional experience of encountering these barriers is complex. There's beauty, sure, but also a subtle reminder of exclusion. Lespilliez's designs don't just adorn spaces; they shape societal interactions and experiences within them.