Hemelbed met rolkussens 1772 - 1779

This “Hemelbed met rolkussens” was made by Nicolas Dupin in the late 18th century. It is a design drawing for an elaborate bed, using ink on paper. The drawing showcases a "lit à la turque," or Turkish-style bed, popular among the French elite at the time. Notice the detailed rendering of textiles, woodwork, and ornamentation. Dupin's skill lies in evoking the textures of draped fabric and carved wood using only lines and shading. The meticulous details suggest the labor-intensive processes involved in crafting such a bed. The design reflects a desire for luxury and comfort, accessible only to the wealthy. The 'Turkish style' alludes to the exoticism sought after by European aristocracy, suggesting a world of goods sourced from far afield. The amount of work involved in its production hints at a society deeply divided by labor and class. Consider how this drawing is not just a representation, but a projection of social status. It challenges our understanding of art by linking aesthetics to economics, and design to the larger history of social inequality.