Textile Design with Alternating Vertical Garland of Stylized Leaves and Undulating Circles Surrounded by Pearls 1840

This 1840 textile design, now in the collection of the Metropolitan Museum of Art, features a repeating pattern of stylized leaves and undulating circles surrounded by pearls. The design is created in a rich, burgundy color and features accents of bright pink, orange, and purple. The repeating pattern of circles and leaves creates a sense of movement and rhythm, characteristic of textile designs of the time. This design exemplifies the popularity of patterned fabrics in the 19th century, used for everything from clothing to home furnishings. The anonymous artist's use of bold colors and geometric shapes reflects the prevailing artistic sensibilities of the era.