Les monuments d'Égypte 1803 - 1813

This printed cotton textile, produced by the Oberkampf Manufactory in France, captures the fascination with ancient Egypt that swept through Europe in the early 19th century. The repeating pattern features iconic Egyptian monuments like pyramids, obelisks, and sphinxes, all rendered in a detailed and romanticized style. The use of red and white tones creates a striking contrast, emphasizing the architectural forms and contributing to the overall sense of grandeur. This textile, now housed in the Metropolitan Museum of Art, exemplifies the influential role of Egyptian motifs in decorative arts of the period.