Tuinbank in Marotstijl c. 1700 - 1750

This garden bench, made in the Marot style, is crafted from wood by an anonymous artist. The bench’s dark, aged wood immediately speaks to its history. The wood grain itself becomes a part of the overall aesthetic. Notice how the maker has used carving techniques to create intricate details such as the scrolls and foliage along the base. The flat panels on the back of the bench are also adorned with detailed carvings. This was a laborious, time-intensive process, requiring not only skill, but also specialized tools. It is a far cry from the mass-produced furniture we are familiar with today. This level of detail signals a patron with a certain degree of wealth and a taste for the artisanal. The value of this bench lies not just in its function, but in the immense labor and tradition it represents. Looking closely allows us to appreciate the way that craft knowledge is embedded in this bench.