Two designs for wine coolers 1745 - 1755

Curator: Immediately, I’m drawn to the almost dreamlike quality of these sketches. They’re ethereal and delicate. Editor: And meticulously rendered! We’re looking at "Two designs for wine coolers", dating from approximately 1745 to 1755, created by an anonymous artist. The artwork is a pencil drawing, heightened with print, and can be found at the Metropolitan Museum of Art. Curator: It's quite striking how these designs embody a sense of lavish abundance, even decadence. The figures adorning the coolers suggest a reverence for classical mythology and pleasure. Notice, particularly in the lower design, how the face almost seems to emerge organically from the flowing vines. Editor: Yes, the application of pencil is quite subtle. You’ll notice how the artist creates depth and form primarily through shading and delicate lines. This is especially evident in the sculptural qualities of the dolphins and the figures surrounding the lower cooler. There’s an implied weight to these forms that is quite impressive for a preliminary sketch. Curator: And the choice of motifs certainly adds to the coolers’ intended function: to amplify convivial gatherings and perhaps inspire playful associations with deities linked to merriment, or even just intoxication! Those playful cherubs seem particularly adept at evoking the bacchanalian spirit. Editor: Absolutely, it's an interesting duality isn't it? A tension between utility and sheer, decorative flourish. They clearly didn't just want to chill wine; they wanted a visually arresting statement. The execution, particularly the controlled handling of the pencil, showcases an extraordinary attention to detail and a complete awareness of design principles. Curator: Seeing these two distinct coolers visualized on the page together gives such a wonderful impression of the priorities and pleasures of that era. They feel, even in sketch form, like emblems of aristocratic culture and social ritual. Editor: Well said. Looking at these designs, so elegantly drafted, underscores the significance of drawing, in its own right, within 18th-century decorative arts. There is so much one could take from these fantastic wine coolers, I can only hope this conversation can act as an incentive.