Leunstoel 1784 - 1785

Pierre Claude Delagardette produced this design for a chair, or "Leunstoel," as it's known in the Netherlands, using etching techniques. Made in France, during the late 18th century, this drawing offers a fascinating glimpse into the design sensibilities of the era, reflecting the broader social and cultural context of the time. The chair's design, with its emphasis on elegance and comfort, speaks to the aristocratic tastes that dominated French society before the Revolution. It also shows a growing concern with ergonomic design. Delagardette's meticulous attention to detail also provides a window into the world of craftsmanship and artisanal production that flourished under the patronage of the French court. Architectural drawings and design patterns were closely regulated and circulated by institutions like the Royal Academy of Architecture. Further research into French furniture design of the period, along with archival sources such as trade catalogs and inventories, would help us better understand the context of this drawing. After all, the history of art is always contingent on a broader understanding of social and institutional context.