Gotische vlakversiering met vlechtwerk c. 1890 - 1922

This is a ‘Gothic Flat Decoration with Braiding’, made on paper by Johanna van de Kamer. It is constructed through a series of intersecting circles, with the woven interlace rendered in tones of grey. It's easy to see Van de Kamer's precise handling of the watercolor and the way she has used line to imply three-dimensionality. This drawing belongs to a larger cultural movement, in which designers looked to historical ornament for inspiration. The Gothic style, with its emphasis on geometry and intricate detail, was especially prized. The original Gothic style in Europe was also associated with particular methods of production. This later reinterpretation involved its own form of labor. Van de Kamer had to master her chosen medium of watercolor in order to successfully create this 'Gothic Flat Decoration with Braiding'. The drawing also speaks to how design is so often based on historical precedent. Appreciating that lineage encourages us to look more closely at the choices of material, making, and historical context.