Journal des Luxus und der Moden 1786, Band I, T. 28 1786

Editor: Here we have an engraving from 1786, titled "Journal des Luxus und der Moden." It's by Friedrich Justin Bertuch and looks to be ink on paper. There is something so elegant and decadent about it. The image features a highly embellished sled. How do you interpret this work, with all of its symbolism? Curator: This image speaks volumes about cultural aspirations. It’s from a fashion journal, aimed at an elite audience. Think about the sled itself – a conveyance, yes, but elevated to an object of high status. Look at the shell motif. Shells throughout history represented pilgrimage, prosperity, and good fortune. How do these resonate in the image? Editor: I see what you mean. The scallop shells do signal wealth and maybe even travel. It definitely transcends a purely functional object. What’s interesting to me is how different meanings layer on top of each other across time. Curator: Precisely! And notice how the sled's design almost mirrors the classical forms being rediscovered at that time, which we call Neoclassicism. The sweep of the runner is very much like that of a roman chair. In this image, luxury adopts a language of civic virtue. The swan’s neck represents fidelity, elegance, love, and a variety of mythic gods. This piece is an incredible combination of aspiration and history all captured through visual symbols. Do you see the way status and classicism reinforce one another here? Editor: Yes, absolutely! It's amazing how something seemingly simple can reveal so much about the cultural landscape of its time. I see those swan associations immediately. Thank you. Curator: And thank you. These little journeys are always rewarding.