Poort met rondboog en hekwerk 1772 - 1779

This is a design for a gate with an arch and fence, made by Jean Pelletier in the 18th century. Although it's just a drawing, we can still talk about the materiality of the proposed structure. Presumably, it would be made from a combination of carved stone or cast concrete, and wrought iron. The combination of materials is telling. Stone and concrete are heavy, solid materials. They speak to permanence and status, reflecting the wealth of the landowner who would have commissioned such a gate. The wrought iron fence, by contrast, speaks to industrialization. This design reflects a moment in history when handcraft and industrial production were coexisting, even collaborating. The drawing also gives us insight into the labor involved. Stonemasons would have been needed to create the arch and decorative elements, while blacksmiths would have forged the iron fence. The design reflects the skills and traditions of both professions, blurring the lines between art and craft. The drawing itself, of course, is a skilled craft, delineating the whole composition with precision. So next time you see a gate like this, remember all the layers of meaning embedded in its materials and making. It's not just a functional object; it's a record of social and economic forces at play.