Commode 1705 - 1725

Editor: This exquisite commode, crafted by André Charles Boulle sometime between 1705 and 1725, immediately strikes me as a statement of opulence. Made with brass, wood, and marble, the contrast of materials creates an intriguing surface. What’s most striking to you about this Baroque piece? Curator: For me, it's the layering of labour, both literally in the construction and figuratively, reflecting the social hierarchy of the period. The exquisite marquetry, the precise carving, and the rich materials… These speak volumes about the craftspeople involved, their skill, and the economics that enabled such production. Editor: How so? What does the labour and material tell us about this artwork? Curator: Think about it. Boulle wasn't just designing; he was overseeing workshops. The materials like the marble and brass had to be sourced, traded, and transported. Wood requires knowledge of specific varieties. This process highlights global connections and a system where luxury was underpinned by considerable material resources and specialized labor. Editor: So, it's not just about aesthetic beauty but also the conditions that made the beauty possible? Curator: Precisely! The commode exemplifies the Baroque style but examining the labor and material forces involved can expand our understanding. How much human capital was deployed to produce and circulate it and whom did it ultimately benefit? What do you think? Editor: That makes a lot of sense. Viewing this piece through that lens completely changes how I perceive it! I guess it’s important to look beyond the gilded surface. Curator: Absolutely. Understanding art means understanding the social and material conditions that allow it to exist. Now, when you look at other decorative objects from this period, maybe you'll consider the unseen hands and material supply chains.