"The Thousand Ravens" endpaper design from the portfolio "Surface Decoration" 1902

Curator: Koloman Moser, born in 1868, designed "The Thousand Ravens" as an endpaper for a portfolio called "Surface Decoration." The sheet measures about 25 by 30 centimeters. My first impression is how dynamic the overall design feels. Editor: It's visually striking—the way the birds tessellate creates such an energetic pattern. What about the choice of ravens, though? Curator: Ravens often symbolize transformation, mystery, and even omens. Moser, drawing from symbolism, might be suggesting a transition or unveiling of hidden knowledge as you open a book. Editor: Yes, and the use of stylized natural forms speaks to the intersection of craft and industry, as such designs were created by hand, but meant for mass production. Think about the role of labor here, and the commodification of art itself. Curator: Interesting. So it's not just the raven's symbolism but also the piece's function as decorative paper, and its accessibility that shapes its meaning. Editor: Exactly. It makes me wonder about the original context, about where such imagery was deployed and for whom. Curator: A good question. It seems there is always more than meets the eye. Editor: Always! It shows you the power in everyday design.