Drawing of an Interior: Cabinet du Salon 1857

This anonymous watercolor drawing from 1857 depicts the interior of a salon, likely a private residence or a collector’s home. The drawing, now in the Metropolitan Museum of Art, presents a detailed view of the room, highlighting the eclectic collection of paintings, furniture, and decorative objects that adorned the walls and surfaces. The artist meticulously captures the ornate details of each piece, including the richly carved cabinet and the delicate porcelain displayed on its shelves, offering a glimpse into the tastes and lifestyle of the room’s inhabitants. This drawing is a compelling example of interior design as a form of self-expression, offering insight into the preferences of its era.