Length 1770 - 1780

"Length" is a textile created by Bromley Hall, which is now held at the Metropolitan Museum of Art. The artwork, which has dimensions of 56 x 64 inches (142.2 x 162.6 cm), invites us to explore the historical and cultural contexts of design and production. The pattern, featuring birds and floral motifs, speaks to the era's fascination with exoticism and nature, themes that frequently appeared in decorative arts. The artwork offers a glimpse into the world of commerce, class, and consumerism. How might the production and consumption of textiles like this one be related to the expansion of trade routes and colonialism? The textile may have been used in domestic settings, potentially influencing perceptions of class and identity. The detailed imagery invites us to reflect on the narratives and values embedded in the designs that surround our daily lives. It encourages us to consider how these designs shape our understanding of ourselves.