Ornament 1875 - 1885

Curator: Here we have an architectural rendering from between 1875 and 1885, a design for what’s titled "Ornament." The drawing comes to us courtesy of Richardson, Ellson & Co., a business specializing in architectural iron work. It employs ink, print, and drawing techniques. Quite intricate. Editor: My initial reaction? It feels… secretive. Like gazing into a locked garden through an ornate gate. There’s this very prominent keyhole dead center. I wonder what kind of secrets it guards. Curator: Given their area of expertise, the drawing likely represents an ornamental ironwork panel for a door or screen, intended to evoke a medieval sensibility. You see that fusion of geometric patterns with stylized foliate designs, all surrounding the centrally located keyhole, just as you noticed. Editor: The medieval revival aspect makes perfect sense. That deliberate echoing of earlier styles--it's such a loaded gesture. All that geometric rigor combined with the flowing plant forms! This panel presents an entire world condensed into ornament, and the whole thing gestures towards mystery. Curator: Right, and speaking of worlds, I notice the suggestion of human presence with that carved figure to the side; is that an angel? It definitely softens the otherwise severe geometric character, I think, adding an interesting layer. Editor: Definitely a spiritual counterpoint, isn’t it? That little angel seems both guardian and gatekeeper. Symbols within symbols. The design feels like a riddle—and invites speculation on what this gate protects and conceals, materially, psychologically or otherwise. Curator: Absolutely. Plus, consider how it reflects an era fascinated by reinterpreting the past, seeking inspiration and authority from historical styles. This object speaks of the ambitions inherent in architectural ornamentation. It wasn't just decorative but symbolically rich. Editor: Ultimately, the combination of rigid geometry, organic flow, and hidden meaning in such details makes this more than just an ornament. It is really a tiny, intriguing puzzle of cultural aspirations. Curator: Agreed. It makes one wonder about the artistry invested in everyday elements of our built environment and just how much intention is present.