Gedecoreerde open haard in het kasteel van Terre-Neuve 1874

This print by Octave Guillaume de Rochebrune captures the decorated fireplace in the Château de Terre-Neuve, showcasing a magnificent example of craftsmanship. The fireplace is made of stone, meticulously carved with figures, crests, and ornamental details, reflecting the wealth and status of the occupants of the castle. Notice the highly skilled labor and tradition involved in the carving, and the sheer amount of work required to transform raw stone into such an elaborate display. The fireplace would have been the focal point of the room, meant to impress visitors with a show of power and taste. The use of traditional materials and techniques ties it to the long history of decorative arts and the high value placed on handcrafted objects. The presence of this ornate fireplace in the castle underscores the social context of the time. The fireplace serves not just a functional purpose, but also to assert social status and commemorate power. By emphasizing the materials, making, and social context, we can fully appreciate the artwork and challenge the divide between fine art and craft.