Twee kapstokken 1895

This print, titled "Twee kapstokken," which translates to "Two Coat Racks," was created by Léon Laroche. It's a product of the Art Nouveau movement, which swept through Europe at the turn of the 20th century. The Art Nouveau style, with its emphasis on organic forms and flowing lines, sought to transform everyday objects into works of art. Consider the social context: as industrialization progressed, there was a growing desire to bring beauty and craftsmanship back into domestic life. Laroche’s design, though functional, elevates the coat rack into something visually pleasing. These designs also reflect the era’s class distinctions; such ornate pieces would likely have been intended for more affluent homes. Even in something as simple as a coat rack, we can find narratives about taste, class, and the aspirations of a society in transition. In considering this design, we are encouraged to question how these objects reflect our values and shape our experiences of home and identity.