Verschillende ornamentele ontwerpen 1855 - 1923

Editor: This is "Verschillende ornamentele ontwerpen" or "Various Ornamental Designs" by Samuel Henri Mendes da Costa, created sometime between 1855 and 1923. It's an ink and pencil drawing on paper. I find it interesting how these designs look like something you might find carved into old buildings, maybe as friezes or decorative elements. What do you make of these designs? Curator: Well, seeing this sheet really makes me think about the cultural function of ornament in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. This was a time of massive industrialization but also a resurgence of interest in craft traditions and a push for “art for the people." Do you notice any recurring motifs or visual language across the designs? Editor: Definitely. There's a strong emphasis on natural forms – leaves, vines, even what looks like human figures emerging from foliage. And a lot of winged creatures. Curator: Exactly. And what's interesting is how those naturalistic elements are stylized and arranged in geometric patterns. Think about the rise of Art Nouveau during this period. Ornament wasn't just about making things look pretty; it was a statement. These designs aimed to ennoble the functional. They were used on everything from buildings and furniture to everyday objects. So, this sheet really speaks to a broader socio-political impulse to elevate the aesthetic quality of daily life through readily available designs and references. Editor: That makes so much sense! So these aren't just random sketches; they reflect a particular cultural moment where art was seen as having the potential to transform everyday life. Curator: Precisely. It speaks to the democratic possibilities afforded by design. The dream of the era to make beauty accessible for all. Something designers are still trying to realize today. Editor: That's really interesting – looking at it that way, this sketchbook feels incredibly relevant, even now. Thanks for your perspective. Curator: My pleasure. It’s been a pleasure to look at this through fresh eyes.