Modello for a neoclassical design for boiserie decoration c. 18th century

This is Francesco Bolgiè's "Modello for a neoclassical design for boiserie decoration," a wooden panel showcasing intricate bas-relief carvings. The verticality of the panel is immediately striking, drawing the eye upwards through its elaborate ornamentation. Bolgiè meticulously layers classical motifs, creating a dense yet balanced composition. Note how the symmetrical arrangement and rhythmic repetition of elements evokes a sense of order, a hallmark of neoclassical design. Yet, the relief carving disrupts the flat wooden surface. The panel's structure invites a semiotic reading, where each symbol contributes to a grand narrative of power and refinement. The visual language communicates a certain cultural aspiration, typical of its time, challenging us to decode the values embedded within its form.