Length 1760 - 1765

Philippe de Lasalle produced "Length", a silk textile, in Lyon, France during the 18th century, when Lyon was a center of silk production. Consider that silk production was deeply embedded in global trade networks, fueled by colonial exploitation. France's economic prosperity was intertwined with its colonial endeavors, impacting countless lives across continents. This panel, with its sinuous branches, cascading roses, and elaborate tassels, speaks to the opulence of the French court while the labor that went into its production is largely invisible. Textiles like this one played a crucial role in shaping identities and social hierarchies. The wealthy elite adorned themselves and their homes with such luxurious materials, signaling their elevated status in society. The exquisite craftsmanship and expensive materials served as a visual language of power and privilege. This artwork serves as a reminder of the complex web of historical, social, and economic forces that shaped the world we inhabit today.