Mise-en-carte (Point-paper) after 1780

"Mise-en-carte (Point-paper)" is a design for printed fabric made by the Germain Frères, a French textile firm. The design features a repeating pattern of stylized floral motifs, rendered in red, blue, yellow, and pink on a gridded background, suggesting its use as a template for textile printing. This design, dating from after 1780, embodies the refined elegance of French decorative arts during this era. The intricate detail and the use of vibrant colors reflect the artistic trends of the time and highlight the technical expertise of the Germain Frères. The artwork, now housed in the Art Institute of Chicago, provides a valuable insight into the artistry of textile design in 18th-century France.