Cape 1890s

Editor: This textile cape, dating from the 1890s, is on display at the Metropolitan Museum of Art. It's really something, isn't it? The way the fabric drapes and flows is quite mesmerizing, but I am curious, how do you interpret this textile from a formalist perspective? Curator: Note how the artist organizes the composition. Vertical brown stripes provide a strong structure, and these are juxtaposed against the lighter tan areas, featuring an intricate swirling pattern. Observe, too, the materiality. It is difficult to tell definitively without examining it firsthand, but consider the interplay of textures. Are there smooth and rough surfaces, plush versus flat weaves? These textures invite tactile exploration. Editor: Yes, I see the vertical lines as the dominant feature, it contrasts well with the swirling pattern you pointed out. The color choice of only two earth tone colors, however, makes me wonder about a lack of contrast. Do you find the textile lacks more dimension with its subdued palette? Curator: That’s a good observation. The restricted color palette reinforces the visual balance, thereby drawing our attention to the relationship between line and form rather than being distracted by bolder color choices. In considering semiotics and how we extract meaning from symbols, what messages or significations do the design patterns convey, beyond their surface appearance? Editor: Now that you point it out, that actually makes sense; the artist wanted our full attention to form. As we come to a close, I have noticed a fresh perspective by understanding design choices and their interplay with shape. Thank you. Curator: Indeed, considering an artwork’s formal elements provides an entryway to its deeper, structural meaning, even something like a simple turn-of-the-century cape. Thank you for sharing your thoughts with me as well.