Pompeiian Design for Wall and Doorway 1850 - 1900

Jules-Edmond-Charles Lachaise designed this Pompeiian wall and doorway on paper, but the date is unknown. Visually, the design is dominated by a palette of muted, earthy tones—reds, browns, and creams—offset by cooler blues and greens. The composition is divided into distinct zones, each marked by intricate decorative patterns. Lachaise’s approach reflects a broader interest in classical forms during his time. Here, the design engages with the archaeological discoveries at Pompeii, and the attempt to revive classical aesthetics in a modern context. The doorway is not merely a functional element but a symbolic threshold, framed by geometric panels and an oval relief depicting cherubic figures. The color, textures, and patterns do not just fill space, but activate the architectural structure of this classical past. Consider how Lachaise uses symmetry and repetition to evoke a sense of order. The design functions as more than just a decorative piece, it is a carefully constructed system of signs.