Reukvaas, een vaas, een olielamp en een koffiepot c. 1780

Jean Baptiste Huet created this drawing of a vase, oil lamp, and coffee pot using graphite. Although seemingly traditional materials, graphite on paper allowed for a high degree of detail and shading, mimicking the surfaces of luxury goods. The drawing depicts ornamental objects associated with the rituals of domestic life in the 18th century. Note how the artist renders the play of light across the objects, emphasizing their decorative details. There are horses, swans, and dogs. These items, though inanimate, have come alive through the artist's hand. Huet’s delicate touch makes these items all the more desirable. He shows the value of craftsmanship and design in everyday life. This blurring of boundaries between art and craft is essential to understanding the full significance of the artwork.