Design for the Decoration of a Cornice 1700 - 1800

This drawing of a cornice design was made with graphite and gray wash on paper, by an anonymous artist. Cornices are decorative moldings found where walls meet ceilings, and this sketch gives us a glimpse into the labor-intensive world of interior architecture. The artist's hand is evident in every meticulously rendered detail, from the delicate scrolls to the robust figures supporting the structure. While it’s just a sketch, it speaks volumes about the skill required to translate such designs into tangible form. Skilled sculptors and artisans would have been needed to carve these ornate details into stone or wood. Consider the social context: These elements, often found in grand homes or public buildings, represent the opulence of the elite. The artistic labor embodies social status, and reveals a system where craftspeople were commissioned to materialize wealth and power. By valuing the making, we recognize the contributions of anonymous artisans, who shaped the environments of the past.