Ontwerp voor een wandbetimmering c. 1928

Curator: This delicate sketch is entitled "Ontwerp voor een wandbetimmering", or Design for Wall Paneling, by Carel Adolph Lion Cachet, dating from around 1928. It's a pencil and ink drawing on paper currently held here at the Rijksmuseum. Editor: Immediately, it strikes me as remarkably sparse, almost skeletal. There's a strong reliance on geometry, wouldn't you say? Just a few lines defining what looks like an architectural element. The soft pencil lends a dreamlike quality to it. Curator: Precisely! And the geometrical abstraction is key here. It’s a design, of course, intended as a guide. Cachet’s known for integrating geometric and organic forms in his designs. One can view this almost as a study of forms within a defined space. What meaning may it convey? Editor: The muted tonality pushes us towards viewing its functionality. While it could exist as a drawing, it doesn't necessarily invite strong feelings, I agree. This work invites consideration on the political discourse around art from this era. One begins to consider Cachet’s involvement in the development of art and its function for design Curator: Quite true. The presence of hand-written notes too, provides another perspective. This is no mere polished presentation; it is instead a peek at the origins of planning within artistic intention. The composition—that deliberate framing of negative space – directs our sight deliberately. Editor: Yes, it is quite insightful to witness the artist’s work, from paper, coming to life in other architectural components. I must say I found my expectations subverted. Curator: In observing Lion Cachet’s technique to produce abstraction, he transforms mere utilitarian purpose into one where artistry leads purpose. Editor: Considering the sketch within the scope of historical and design context transforms the view entirely. Its bare appearance hints at revolutionary changes. Curator: It allows a fresh lens through the artwork on how the past shapes current approaches in abstraction in art, as seen here in its primitive but intentional state. Editor: A lovely insight and summary. Thank you for guiding us into exploring its multiple layers through abstraction and historical purpose!