Trim c. 19th century

Editor: This decorative textile from the 19th century, titled "Trim," is made of silk and currently housed at the Minneapolis Institute of Art. It has such an interesting trompe-l'oeil effect. How do you interpret this piece? Curator: What stands out is its embodiment of power and privilege. Consider its function – as curtain trim. In the 19th century, such embellishments signaled wealth and control over domestic space. The very act of ‘trimming’ suggests a deliberate shaping of environment, mirroring the social hierarchies of the time. What does the almost sculptural quality suggest to you? Editor: I guess the way it imitates a 3D object, when it is actually a flat decorative piece, brings attention to the artificiality and performance of wealth? Curator: Precisely. It’s also worth noting that textiles, traditionally relegated to the domestic sphere and often produced by women, were historically undervalued as art forms. Pieces like this challenge those rigid boundaries. Do you see a commentary on gender and labor here? Editor: Yes, I hadn’t thought about it that way. The artistry is evident, and perhaps meant to be understated as it performs its role as part of domestic architecture? I wonder how people thought about these things when viewing these items. Curator: Good question. We must always look for who the piece served and who were complicit in upholding this view of society. What's your takeaway from looking at "Trim" today? Editor: That everyday objects can be powerful indicators of social and political context, offering subtle critiques on everything from wealth to gender. Thank you!