Venster met gordijnen after 1878

This print of a window with curtains was made by an anonymous artist in France. The interior design industry has long served as an indicator of social hierarchy and cultural values. Here, we see a drawing titled “Window with Curtains," likely intended for commercial distribution. The curtains are heavy, opulent and adorned with tassels and the image evokes a sense of luxury and refinement associated with the upper classes. The text at the top reads "Le Magasin de Meubles", or "The Furniture Store" and this print would have been used by furniture stores to advertise their wares to those who could afford them. This image provides valuable insight into the aspirations and material culture of the era. The study of commercial art and design helps us to understand the values and tastes of a particular society at a particular moment in history. It prompts us to consider questions such as: Who had access to these goods, and what did they signify? In order to answer these questions, we can consult trade catalogs, advertisements, and other archival sources.