Twee banken 1885 - 1895

Léon Laroche's 'Two Sofas' is a print that showcases furniture designs, likely intended for distribution among workshops in France. The design is focused on high-end comfort. What is the relationship between the upholstered form and the labor it would have required? The maker has rendered the fabric in meticulous detail, giving close attention to the elaborate fringing. But while the textile surfaces are clearly differentiated, the frames of the sofas are not visible. In this sense, the print suggests a degree of abstraction - even a certain weightlessness. This makes them seem less like functional objects, and more like pure expressions of luxury, emphasizing the cultural significance of comfort and fine craftsmanship within a society marked by emerging industrialization. Looking closely at these designs encourages us to consider the social context of such refined objects and their implied aspirations. It also challenges us to think about how the craft and design of everyday items can convey meaning just as powerfully as painting or sculpture.