Tafel en hoektafel 1745 - 1775

Curator: Isn’t this a charming study! We’re looking at an engraving from sometime between 1745 and 1775 titled “Tafel en hoektafel,” attributed to an anonymous artist, here at the Rijksmuseum. What leaps out at you? Editor: Frivolity, actually! I imagine a powdered wig and someone writing gossip with a quill. The frills, the curves... it’s like furniture trying to be a flamboyant gesture. I can imagine it sitting on a set piece in some operatic production. Curator: Indeed! It embodies the Rococo style, known for its elaborate ornamentation and asymmetry. The design reflects the aristocratic tastes of the period, emphasizing luxury and leisure. Editor: Luxury is right! It’s almost comical, how much energy they put into these shapes when, in the end, they serve practical purposes like... holding ink? Storing clandestine love letters? Curator: The image gives insight into the culture that produces and consumes such ornate pieces. The prevalence of engravings like this would serve to distribute these luxury designs to broader audiences beyond those who could afford bespoke furniture. It also reflects a period of intense interest in design and decoration. Editor: So, this engraving almost acts as a piece of marketing from back in the day. Were these furniture designs actually mass produced, or was this more like aspirational porn for the stylish set? Curator: Neither. Artisans likely drew inspiration from these designs, but each finished product was distinct, and often unique due to the time-consuming and laborious craftsmanship involved. Mass production wouldn’t come until well into the next century, but you do find that elements from this are present in all works from this era. Editor: Well, you have completely assassinated my buzz! But I'll admit, it's nice knowing there's a bit more than powdered wigs happening in the artwork. It is a peek into what people value. Curator: Exactly! And that interplay between functionality and display, production, consumption…it offers us so much insight. Editor: It makes me think about how future generations will analyze our obsession with minimalist Scandinavian furniture!