Twee banken 1895

Here we see two benches designed by Léon Laroche. Though presented on paper, these objects were likely envisioned in carved wood, fabric, and stuffing. The Louis XV style, evoked in the title, involved an elaborate production chain. Woodworkers shaped the frames, often using imported hardwoods. Upholsterers then tacked and stitched layers of fabric. Gilders might add metallic leaf to the carved surfaces, enhancing their luxurious appeal. The finished objects reflected a hierarchy of craft skills and materials. These benches represent much more than just seating. They embody the social aspirations of their owners, the labor of many hands, and the resources of a colonial system that made such refinement possible. Understanding the work requires not just aesthetic appreciation, but an awareness of its place in a global economy.