Parquetry Floor c. 1936

Sebastian Simonet created this Parquetry Floor design, likely around the turn of the 20th century, using watercolor and graphite on paper. What might first strike you is the range of patterns Simonet has envisioned here, from Greek key to floral motifs. But I encourage you to consider the material logic behind this image. Parquetry is a technique of geometric mosaic, requiring patience and precision. Visualize a skilled artisan meticulously cutting, fitting, and arranging wooden pieces, letting the natural grain and color variations of the wood create the pattern. The process is labor-intensive, a signifier of luxury found in grand homes and palaces. The contrast between the complex designs and the simple material calls attention to the skill involved, a demonstration of human ingenuity expressed through careful, repetitive work. This design drawing, and the potential floor it represents, challenge the traditional hierarchy of art and craft, inviting us to appreciate the artistry inherent in functional design.