Twee banken 1885 - 1895

Editor: So, this is "Twee banken," or "Two Sofas," a print and drawing by Léon Laroche, created sometime between 1885 and 1895. What strikes me is the emphasis on the fabric, almost obscuring the form of the furniture itself. What do you see in this piece, considering its focus on, well, sofas? Curator: Indeed. As a materialist, I see this less as a depiction of "sofas" and more as a study in textiles and their societal function. Note the layers of fabric, the intricate trimming. It speaks volumes about the leisure class of the late 19th century and the material wealth required to produce and maintain such objects. How do you think these prints might have functioned within the broader context of furniture production at the time? Editor: That’s fascinating. I hadn't considered it beyond just an image. Perhaps it was used as a sample book for potential clients, showcasing the latest designs and materials? Curator: Precisely! These images are documenting the possibilities inherent in the upholstery itself. Think about the labor involved in creating those embellishments, the social stratification embedded in who had access to such craftsmanship. This isn't just furniture; it's a material statement. Editor: So it's more about the materials and the socio-economic factors surrounding them, rather than the object itself. That really shifts my perspective on the image. Curator: Exactly! By focusing on the materials, we begin to understand the larger network of production, consumption, and social relations that shape the creation and interpretation of art. And also furniture! Editor: That’s an intriguing way to approach what I initially saw as a straightforward image of furniture. It certainly gives me a lot to consider about the context surrounding artistic creation. Curator: And that understanding of materials, processes and labour opens up new ways to understand all art forms, whether intentionally or unintentionally.