Book cover with overall red floral pattern 1700 - 1800

This anonymous 18th-century book cover, now housed at the Metropolitan Museum of Art, features a vibrant red ground with a repeating pattern of stylized leaves and delicate blossoms in a pale, almost white, shade. The overall effect is one of intricate detail and delicate beauty, a common hallmark of decorative arts from this era. The design, likely intended for a decorative object or perhaps even a piece of clothing, demonstrates the skillful application of the block printing technique, a popular method for creating patterned textiles during this period. The book cover offers a glimpse into the aesthetic sensibilities of the 18th century, where intricate floral motifs were highly prized.