Pattern in black on a white ground; along the cental axis a sylised flower 1703 - 1712

Daniël Marot, a French-born designer working in the Netherlands and England, created this black ink pattern on a white ground sometime between 1680 and 1717. It presents a symmetrical design, dominated by a stylized flower along the central axis. The image offers a glimpse into the world of Baroque interior design. Marot was a leading figure in introducing French Baroque styles to Northern Europe. The rigid symmetry and elaborate ornamentation reflect the era's emphasis on order and opulence, characteristics favoured by wealthy patrons. Such designs were not merely decorative; they projected power and status, reinforcing existing social hierarchies. To fully understand Marot's designs, one must delve into the socio-political context of his time. The rise of absolutist monarchies, the expansion of trade, and the development of court societies all shaped the demand for luxury goods and elaborate displays of wealth. Libraries and archives provide valuable resources for understanding this world. By exploring these materials, we can better appreciate the complex interplay between art, power, and society.