La Danse des Noirs (Furnishing Fabric) c. 1760

This printed cotton fabric, *La Danse des Noirs (Furnishing Fabric)*, was created by the Oberkampf Manufactory in Jouy-en-Josas, France, around 1760. The design depicts a lively scene of “blackamoors” engaged in a circle dance around a palm tree, referencing colonial tropes and fashion trends of the period. The red and white printed pattern was a popular choice for furnishing fabrics during the 18th century, as evidenced by its inclusion in the collection of The Art Institute of Chicago. The repeating pattern incorporates canoes, igloos, and other motifs from the colonial world.