Zes bloemmotieven 1784 - 1785

These six flower motifs were etched by Jean Baptiste Echantillon as patterns for embroidery. Observe how each design entwines blossoms and leaves with pearls and ribbons. The use of floral garlands can be traced back to ancient Rome, adorning temples and public spaces during festivals. In these designs, however, the motifs have been tamed, domesticated into patterns for the needle. We see bows, pearls, and garlands, which were often symbols of celebration, connection, and festivity. The arrow motif strikes the eye. Often associated with Cupid’s arrow, it resurfaces as a symbol of love and desire. It is fascinating to see how the emotional power of these elements – the joy of flowers, the binding nature of garlands, the piercing aim of arrows – is adapted and recontextualized over centuries. Each era imbues them with new meaning, yet the echoes of their origins remain, engaging our collective memory on a deep, subconscious level.