Cantonnière met draperieën, palmbomen en bloemguirlandes c. 1860

This textile artwork, Cantonnière with draperies, palm trees and flower garlands, was made by Braquenié Frères. Notice the detailed floral design of this 'Cantonnière'. It imitates draped fabric, complete with painted swags and tassels. This requires a high level of skill and artistry. The textile is a product of the Industrial Revolution; it likely came off a mechanized Jacquard loom. These machines translated complex patterns into woven form, making elaborate designs more accessible to consumers. Yet, it also threatened the livelihoods of hand-loom weavers. The imagery of palmbomen and bloemguirlandes suggests a longing for exotic locales, reflecting the colonial mindset of the time. This is not just decoration. It also embodies aspirations, anxieties, and the global reach of industry during that period.