Panel c. 19th century

This anonymously crafted panel features a dense floral pattern, rendered in a striking red dye. The botanical motifs, while seemingly decorative, echo a much older dialogue between humans and nature. Consider how ancient cultures revered the regenerative power of plant life, embedding floral symbols in their mythologies and art. We see echoes of this reverence in the recurring use of flowers in textiles, and even in contemporary fashion. The rose, for instance, has evolved from a symbol of Venus, the goddess of love, to a ubiquitous motif in modern design, a symbol of beauty. What forces drive our impulse to adorn our surroundings with nature's patterns? Is it a yearning for a lost connection with the natural world, a subconscious desire to bring harmony and growth into our lives? These symbols reappear throughout history, evolving, adapting, and echoing our deepest emotional states.