Free Hand Wall Decoration 1935 - 1942

Michael Lauretano's "Free Hand Wall Decoration" gives us a glimpse into late 19th and early 20th century notions of domestic beauty. Born in 1855, Lauretano's lifetime coincided with shifting social attitudes and the rise of industrialization. The floral motif, rendered with a muted palette, feels like a rebellion against the mass-produced. It speaks to a desire for individualized expression within the home. The handmade quality of this piece becomes significant. It represents a personal touch, and perhaps a critique of the increasingly impersonal nature of the modern world. The gendered dimensions of domesticity cannot be ignored. Home decoration was often considered a woman's domain. Lauretano, regardless of his gender, engages with this intimate space, suggesting how artistic expression could blur traditional boundaries. Perhaps this wall decoration was meant to provide comfort or an imaginative escape in a rapidly changing world. It prompts us to consider the quiet acts of resistance and self-definition that occur within our own living spaces.