Twee kasten after 1878

This print, titled 'Twee kasten,' presents two furniture designs from an anonymous artist. The designs are labeled in French as "Petit Meuble Anglais" and "Meuble Anglais," suggesting an interest in English style. Made in France, this print reflects the 19th-century fascination with design and industrialization. The image, likely a lithograph, would have been part of a catalogue for furniture makers, or perhaps a resource book for aspiring homeowners. We see the rise of a consumer culture, with furniture becoming increasingly accessible and stylish. The presence of French text indicates the importance of design in French culture and its role as a tastemaker in Europe. By researching historical records, design publications, and trade catalogues from the period, we can uncover the role of institutions and cultural values in shaping both the production and consumption of furniture. This print becomes a window into a complex social and economic landscape.