Design for small showroom or powder room.] [Interior perspective study 1910

Winold Reiss drew this interior perspective study for a small showroom or powder room using graphite and colored pencil. Reiss was a German-born American artist known for his contributions to the Harlem Renaissance. The drawing provides a glimpse into the aesthetic sensibilities of the early 20th century, with its geometric patterns and streamlined forms reflecting the Art Deco movement. Reiss’s work often explored themes of identity and cultural representation, particularly in his portraits of African Americans. This intimate setting contrasts with the broader social changes happening, like the rise of consumer culture and urbanization which were influencing ideas of home and personal space. While this drawing may seem purely decorative, it also speaks to the power of design in shaping our experiences and perceptions. The careful arrangement of lines and colors creates a sense of harmony and balance, offering a moment of respite from the chaos of modern life. It presents an opportunity to consider how the spaces we inhabit reflect and shape our identities.