Ronde tafel met opengewerkte voet c. 1835 - 1860

Franz Jakob Kreuter made this drawing of a round table with an openwork base in the 19th century. The drawing depicts an ornate table design, showcasing a revival of classical motifs popular at the time. Made in Germany, this piece reflects the period's interest in combining functionality with elaborate decoration, often seen in furniture design intended for the aspiring middle classes. The table's design, with its decorative carvings and classical references, suggests an aspiration to a higher social status and a taste for refined aesthetics. Kreuter’s detailed rendering provides insight into the manufacturing aspirations of the era, where design and craftsmanship played significant roles in shaping social identities. By studying such drawings in the context of socio-economic shifts, we gain insight into the values and aspirations of the emerging middle class. Researching design pattern books, trade catalogs, and even probate inventories can further illuminate our understanding of the history of design.