Fragment zijdeweefsel met opgedrukt patroon c. 1920

This is a fragment of printed silk textile created by the Wiener Werkstätte sometime between 1903 and 1932. The composition, though partial, presents an intriguing interplay of stylized forms. Notice the earthy tones, dominated by shades of beige and terracotta, contrasted with sparse hints of indigo. The design features an androgynous figure holding what appears to be a candle, positioned above an elaborate floral base. The pattern's structure employs simple shapes and flowing lines, revealing an aesthetic that’s both decorative and symbolically suggestive. The Wiener Werkstätte were known for integrating art into everyday life, blurring boundaries between fine art and design. This fragment encapsulates this philosophy, demonstrating how formal qualities can create an object of aesthetic contemplation. The materiality of silk enhances the visual elements, adding texture and depth to the overall design. The piece invites us to consider how textiles engage with broader themes of modernity, craftsmanship and the aestheticization of daily life.