Twee fauteuils en tafel 1885 - 1895

Here we have Léon Laroche's design for 'Twee fauteuils en tafel', or 'Two Armchairs and a Table', created as a lithograph. Dominating the scene are the chairs themselves, adorned with tassels and floral motifs, symbols of opulence and domestic comfort. The floral patterns, reminiscent of ancient fertility symbols, speak to a deeper connection between nature, beauty, and the home. Consider the recurrent use of floral designs across different eras, from the garlands of classical antiquity to the tapestries of the Middle Ages. These patterns are not merely decorative; they evoke a sense of growth and renewal. But look closer – the tassels, too, are laden with meaning. In many cultures, tassels symbolize status and power, acting as a visual marker of distinction. Think of the elaborate robes of royalty or the ceremonial garb of religious figures. They hint at something beyond mere functionality, a psychological assertion of influence and control. It's through this cyclical recurrence that we see the powerful emotional currents that underpin visual symbols. They are not static, but rather dynamic, constantly shifting and evolving.