Fragment van wandbespanning van lampas met tortelduivenpatroon c. 1770 - 1790

This fragment of lampas wall covering with a turtledove pattern was created by Philippe de Lasalle, a prominent figure in the French silk industry during the 18th century. Lasalle lived in an era where France was the epicenter of luxury textile production, catering to the tastes of the aristocracy and royalty. His designs reflect the opulence and refinement of the Rococo period, characterized by intricate patterns, delicate motifs, and a celebration of natural forms. The choice of turtledoves symbolizes love, peace, and fidelity, appealing to the sentimental values prevalent in aristocratic circles. Yet, this beauty obscures the labor and exploitation of workers, particularly women, within the silk manufacturing industry. Such textiles served not only as decorative elements but also as markers of social status. Consider how this fragment prompts us to reflect on the complex interplay between aesthetics, power, and labor in the creation of luxury goods.