Canapé en ligstoel 1885 - 1895

Editor: This print, titled "Canapé en ligstoel," or "Couch and Daybed," dates to sometime between 1885 and 1895, and is attributed to Léon Laroche. The lithographic rendering on what appears to be aged paper gives it a sense of delicacy and perhaps even obsolescence. What stands out to you about it? Curator: The image’s meticulous detail begs the question: what kind of labor went into creating and reproducing this image? I'm struck by the use of "Le Garde-Meuble," a journal presenting a ‘Collection of Designs.’ This positions furniture not as mere objects, but as artifacts worthy of documentation and dissemination, essentially democratizing access to aristocratic design. Who would have used a book like this? Editor: It feels like a catalogue of design aspirations. Perhaps for artisans to recreate these for a wider clientele, not just the aristocracy? Or maybe as a status symbol? Curator: Precisely. This blurring of lines is where materiality becomes fascinating. Mass production methods could now simulate, however imperfectly, the craft traditions previously exclusive to the wealthy. Does this print then represent an elevation of craft through mechanical reproduction, or a degradation of the unique handcrafted object? How does that impact its reception? Editor: I hadn't considered the social commentary embedded in the very act of reproducing and circulating these designs. It makes me think about the value we assign to 'authentic' versus mass-produced items today. Curator: The print opens up many important avenues of enquiry for scholars wanting to understand art production during industrial times. Thank you! Editor: Yes, thank you - I will be thinking about furniture and society quite differently from now on.