Buffetkast 1885 - 1895

This ‘Buffetkast’ or sideboard, was designed by Léon Laroche using pen, ink, and watercolor. The print presents a fascinating intersection of design and craft. Its symmetrical gothic revival style and the profusion of arches and quatrefoils, typical of the era, suggest the use of industrial production techniques. However, the watercolor rendering softens this somewhat, suggesting an intimacy between the designer and the furniture piece. The cabinet is laden with decoration; hand painted vases, platters, portraits, and ornate handles. The work that went into designing and fabricating the piece demonstrates a revival of artisanal practices during the industrial revolution. Ultimately, this image highlights a tension between machine production and the desire for handcrafted, decorative objects. It reminds us that the value of design lies not only in its aesthetic appeal, but also in the intricate processes and social contexts that shape its creation.