Girandole met putti 1775 - 1790

This is an architectural drawing by A. Colinet of a girandole, or ornamental candle holder, made with pen and black ink. The design itself is elaborate, featuring leafy branches, classical motifs, and mythical putti figures. The drawing meticulously captures the texture and form that would be involved in the making of such an ornate object. Think about the labor involved in carving, casting, and assembling such a complex design. The design suggests luxury, and the candle holder would have illuminated a domestic interior. The production of an object like this involves many hands, from the designer to the craftsman, whose skills are reflected in the final form. The drawing encapsulates these processes, preserving the vision of an object meant to occupy privileged spaces. It challenges the distinction between fine art and craft by asking us to consider the creative vision required in both its design and its making.