Tekening uit L’Art Industriel c. 1830 - 1850

This highly-detailed drawing of a centerpiece comes from the French firm Feuchère, though we don’t know exactly when it was made. The design reflects an interesting point in the history of the decorative arts. This drawing was made as part of a project called 'L’Art Industriel' - or, in English, 'Industrial Art.' In 19th-century France, ‘industrial art’ referred to the relationship between fine art and design for industry. There was a huge demand for qualified designers to create models for mass production. This drawing attempts to bridge the gap between art and industry. How can we better understand this piece? Well, many design drawings survive in museum collections, such as the Cooper Hewitt in New York. Also, trade publications and design journals offer much information about the role of design in society at this time. Examining these resources helps us consider the social and institutional contexts of art.