Two designs for watch-cases c. 1765 - 1780

This watercolor drawing shows two designs for watch cases by an anonymous artist. The image speaks to the world of luxury goods and artisanal production, likely from the 18th or 19th century. During this period, watchmaking was a highly skilled craft, and the cases were often as prized as the timepieces themselves. The designs here, with their delicate floral motifs and jewel-like accents, reflect the era's emphasis on ornamentation and display of wealth. Examining similar designs from the period in trade publications and museum collections can provide a deeper understanding of the fashion and social values that informed these creations. The fact that the artist is unknown raises questions about the role of the individual artisan in a system where branding and celebrity were less prominent than today. Ultimately, this image is a reminder that art and design are always embedded in specific economic, social, and institutional contexts.