Design for a Cabinet 1878 - 1888

This design for a cabinet was drawn by W. Strong in the 19th century. It is rendered in pencil on paper, a straightforward technique for conveying an idea about how a piece of furniture might be constructed. But look closely and you’ll see that the aesthetic is far from simple. The cabinet's proposed form is neoclassical. Note the detailed frieze at the top of the cabinet, the carefully considered proportions, and the symmetrical arrangement of drawers and doors. All these details speak to a moment in design history when handcraftsmanship was highly valued, though industrialization was on the rise. This drawing, though preparatory, reminds us of the skill and labor involved in bringing such a design to fruition. It also speaks to the cultural aspirations of those who would have commissioned such a piece, hoping to embody timeless values in their homes. It goes to show, even a simple sketch can reveal the complex relationship between design, production, and social class.