Wandarm c. 1780

Andreas Stöttrup produced this drawing titled Wandarm with pen in grey-brown ink around the late 18th century. At the time, France was at the forefront of decorative design and architecture, and drawings like this one played a crucial role in shaping aesthetic tastes, spreading artistic ideals, and serving as a blueprint for skilled craftsmen. This kind of drawing was critical for the development of Neoclassical design during the period and speaks to the institutional structures of the era when academies and workshops played a central role in artistic production, setting standards and defining what was considered fashionable. Historians consult a wide range of sources to better understand the meaning of art, including period documents such as letters, journals, catalogs, and architectural treatises. Ultimately, by exploring these primary sources, we gain a deeper understanding of how art reflects and shapes society.