Design for Two Medieval Style Armchairs for "Rev. W. Lloyd" 1800 - 1850

Curator: Here we have an intriguing design piece hailing from between 1800 and 1850, currently held at the Met: "Design for Two Medieval Style Armchairs for 'Rev. W. Lloyd'". It's rendered in pencil and watercolor and ink and, interestingly, its creator remains anonymous. Editor: Wow, they're deliciously opulent, aren't they? A bit like thrones shrunk down for domestic use. The pink upholstery against that almost skeletal, gold-touched frame—very evocative. Curator: It's suggestive of the Arts and Crafts movement, though perhaps pre-dating its full flowering. What interests me is the context: Who was Rev. W. Lloyd, and what kind of social performance did these chairs enable? The design's clear invocation of medievalism points to certain performative notions of class, taste, and perhaps even religious authority. Editor: Authority for sure! I bet whoever commissioned this design felt they deserved some seriously special seating. But look closely at the two chairs. It is quite subtle, but one looks less finished than the other—as though this might capture the moment of refining an idea on paper. Curator: An interesting observation. Considering material access, artistic labor and consumer aspirations around this time are important. To commission such bespoke designs would not have been cheap and I wonder if there's a desire for social ascension rooted here. Editor: Oh, undoubtedly! Still, they've got a quirky appeal. If you paired these with, say, a minimalist coffee table and a neon artwork, you could create such unexpected alchemy. It is also nice to consider the labour, skill and effort needed in their production; imagining where that effort could be directed to in today's design industries feels potent. Curator: I agree there’s potency. These are not just furniture pieces but reflections of power, identity, and the fascinating dynamics between design and society. Considering where power currently resides, who these designs are *for*, is something to consider now. Editor: Yes! Art opens doors to the past but must also make sure there is enough room for different seats at the table, now, and looking forward.