The Modern Style of Cabinet Work Exemplified 1832

Curator: Let’s examine “The Modern Style of Cabinet Work Exemplified,” a print made around 1832 by Thomas King. It's part of the collection here at The Met. Editor: My immediate impression is of restrained elegance. The precise lines and repeating floral motif evoke a sense of order and refinement. It’s all about form, isn't it? Curator: Precisely! King created this work during a period of significant stylistic change in furniture design. "Modern Style" implied a departure from earlier, heavier forms towards lighter, more graceful designs that became popular in homes across Europe. Editor: Yes, you can see the intent through his application of academic style and focus on form; there is almost a diagrammatic feel to the print—clean lines showcasing the furniture’s architectural elements. Curator: Indeed, it functions as both a design proposal and a statement of emerging aesthetic values. The rise of the middle class meant that new styles of domestic goods and furniture was quickly consumed for various political, social, and domestic aspirations. Editor: What strikes me most is the artist's economy of line, almost as if he wishes to express its bare, architectural bones. The overall form contains floral elements too. Curator: It embodies aspirations of order through furniture, the new objecthood, and this style circulated within instructional books allowing a broad reach and accessibility. This work is representative of how design and accessibility began intertwining during the early 19th century. Editor: This is especially telling with such decorative excess throughout interior and domestic space; King managed to balance the plane—a true academic's line style—but moreover his emphasis of shapes and design provides an elegant insight into style. Curator: It’s a remarkable intersection of craft, commerce, and class that gives us insight into social and domestic value-systems. Editor: A fine example, really, of form serving function, and offering a rather gorgeous experience in visual structure.