Clothes Chest and Clothes Press, from Chippendale Drawings, Vol. II 1753

Editor: So, this is "Clothes Chest and Clothes Press, from Chippendale Drawings, Vol. II" created by Thomas Chippendale around 1753. It's a drawing, or a print, on paper. It shows two different furniture designs. The designs feel very precise and ornate but… static, almost. What stands out to you? Curator: Immediately, the geometric patterning speaks to me of order and societal structure. Look how the proposed ‘Clothes Chest’ on the left contrasts with the more elaborate 'Clothes Press’ on the right. Don't you see in the latter elements evoking flourishing nature, delicate, almost Rococo in spirit? Editor: I do. The ‘Clothes Chest’ seems so much more restrained in its decoration. Why the contrast? Curator: Think about the role of clothing at that time. These pieces weren’t just storage; they were statements. The chest, simpler, might suggest a more functional, everyday purpose, the clothes press a place to showcase treasured garments, emphasizing social status, or perhaps even aspirations. What sort of story might they have told a 18th-century audience? Editor: That makes so much sense! The press becomes almost like a display case, doesn’t it? Now I can see how someone’s choices would say volumes about who they were or wanted to be. Thanks for your insight. Curator: And thank you for making me reflect on what the designers' choices might say about their patrons. The conversation continues...