Drie spiegels 1895 - 1935

Here we see Léon Laroche’s print depicting three mirror designs for dining rooms, likely made sometime in the 19th century. The technique involved is chromolithography, a method that allowed for the relatively inexpensive mass production of colored images. Look closely, and you’ll see the texture of the paper itself, which contrasts with the smooth, reflective surfaces of the mirrors they represent. Each design draws on historical styles - Renaissance, Henri II, and Louis XVI - referencing the past glories of French craftsmanship. But, here's the rub: Chromolithography democratized access to these aspirational aesthetics. No longer exclusive to the wealthy, design became a consumer commodity, fueling the burgeoning culture of the interior. The print isn't just about aesthetics, it speaks volumes about the changing landscape of production and consumption. It reminds us that even the most seemingly decorative objects are deeply intertwined with the social and economic forces of their time. So, the next time you look in a mirror, consider what lies beneath the surface: a reflection of not just yourself, but also the world in which it was made.