Design for a Corner of a Ceiling 1680 - 1730

This drawing, titled "Design for a Corner of a Ceiling" was made anonymously with pen and ink on paper. We can see the material intention of the design in the artist’s notes, as he annotates the drawing with considerations for materials and processes for the architectural detail. The drawing depicts a design for a corner of a ceiling, showcasing ornate decorations made of marble, plaster, and painted figures. The artist notes the use of faux gold leaf, and marble in varied colors, suggesting an interest in materiality, color and texture. This emphasis on detailing is characteristic of luxury architectural design and speaks to the skilled labor required to bring such visions to life. We can almost imagine the meticulous work of the plasterers, carvers, and painters who would have transformed this design into a tangible reality. Paying attention to the materials and the processes involved allows us to appreciate the cultural significance and the hierarchies of labor embedded in the visual artwork.