Liervogel 1874 - 1945

Carel Adolph Lion Cachet made this stark black and white design, called “Liervogel,” using ink and graphite. The meticulous process, probably involving careful drawing and redrawing, has imbued the artwork with a sense of precision. It may have been intended as a textile design, or some other kind of repeatable pattern. The level of detail suggests that the artist engaged with traditions of both fine art and craft, bringing them together in a way that elevates both. The design has a stylized symmetry, with sweeping lines and geometric patterns that capture the essence of the bird's form. Yet it has a distinctly modern feel. This may be connected to the social context in which it was produced; a growing middle class demanding affordable, attractive design. This striking graphic could be reproduced at scale, connecting the aesthetics of fine art with industrial manufacturing and the wider marketplace. This piece challenges our traditional definitions of art and craft, urging us to appreciate the skill and creativity embedded in design for everyday life.