Design for Mirror Frame 1765 - 1775

This is a design for a mirror frame, made anonymously with graphite on paper. The delicate lines create a symmetrical composition, dominated by classical motifs: a garlanded vase, swags of foliage, and geometric borders. The drawing is more than just an aesthetic exercise; it’s a crucial step in the mirror's production. Consider the labor involved: from the initial design to the skilled carving of wood or plaster. The social context of the time would dictate who might own such a mirror. It speaks to wealth, status, and a desire for refined living. The design process is often overlooked, yet it is a reminder that every object, no matter how seemingly simple, is the result of careful planning, skilled labor, and a complex web of social relations. It challenges us to see beyond the surface and appreciate the full story of its creation.