Fire screen (écran) 1781 - 1791

This fire screen was crafted by Georges Jacob, featuring a combination of carved and gilded wood, along with delicate needlepoint. The screen’s wooden frame showcases Jacob’s skill as a furniture maker, with its detailed carvings and elegant gilding, while the needlepoint panel adds another layer of artistry. This textile work transforms the screen into a canvas, demonstrating the creative possibilities of what might seem like domestic craft. Note the contrast between the crisp, classical lines of the frame and the more relaxed, pictorial composition of the textile. During this period, such screens were functional items in wealthy homes, meant to shield faces from the heat of the fire, but also status symbols, demonstrating the owner’s taste and refinement. The combination of woodworking and needlepoint reflects a society where craftsmanship was highly valued, and where the skills of both male and female artisans contributed to the creation of beautiful and functional objects. By considering both its making and its context, we can fully appreciate the object’s cultural significance.