Twee boekenkasten 1895

Léon Laroche created this print of two bookcases using lithography, a process that democratized image production in the 19th century. The bookcases are rendered with a graphic precision typical of design catalogues. We can appreciate the wood from which they would be made, likely a hardwood like oak or mahogany, lending weight and substance. Gilding highlights the ornate details, adding a touch of luxury. The lithographic process, involving drawing on stone and then printing, allows for fine lines and subtle shading. The drawing highlights the play between handcraft and industrial production, reflecting a tension in design at the time. Mass production allowed for broader consumption, even of luxury items. Considering this print, the material reality of furniture, and the social context of its production, can deepen our understanding of its appeal. It invites us to look beyond style, and to consider the labor, materials, and systems of production that ultimately shape our material world.