Canapé, fauteuil en stoel 1895

This lithograph showcases furniture designs by Léon Laroche, presenting a canapé, armchair, and chair in a light green hue. The most striking feature is the tassel motif, adorning each piece. Tassels, throughout history, have served as potent symbols. In ancient cultures, they were often associated with power and status, adorning the garments of priests and royalty. Think of the elaborate fringes on the robes of biblical figures or the opulent trappings of Renaissance monarchs. These were not mere decorations but declarations of authority and divine connection. In our subconscious, tassels evoke a sense of formality and opulence. Perhaps it's the sway and movement that suggests a life of leisure and privilege. Yet, the repetitive, almost rhythmic nature of tassels might also touch upon deeper, primal instincts, evoking comfort and security through repetition. Thus, the tassels in Laroche's furniture designs are not just decorative elements but also conduits of cultural memory. They conjure a past filled with grandeur, subtly elevating these everyday objects to symbols of aspiration and refinement. This cyclical progression, with symbols resurfacing and evolving, highlights the enduring power of visual motifs.