Wandbespanning 1911 - 1915

Chris Lebeau created this wall covering, Wandbespanning, date unknown, with a repetitive pattern of stylized motifs in warm yellows and off-whites. I imagine Lebeau, probably working in a studio filled with rolls of paper and textile samples, carefully planning out the pattern. It’s like a dance—repetition and variation intertwine to create something that’s both familiar and surprising. You can sense the artist’s hand, the texture, and the rhythm of the design. I think the key to this wall covering is the way the pattern sort of breathes—how a single gesture can carry so much intention. You see so many textile designs that are so busy that they don’t breathe at all. I feel like Lebeau is in conversation with William Morris and other designers. It is almost like they were all constantly trying to outdo each other. They were all such dedicated artists and thinkers.