Custom windows 

Karl Ballenberger made this drawing of custom windows using graphite on paper in the 19th century. The medium of graphite lends itself to the precise rendering required for architectural designs. We see detailed geometric patterns within the window, hinting at the craftsmanship involved in creating such ornate structures. Ballenberger's drawing speaks to the social context of architectural design in the 1800s. As industrialization progressed, there was a growing appreciation for skilled handcraftsmanship and the aesthetic of gothic architecture. The labor-intensive nature of creating custom windows by hand would have been significant. Understanding the materials and making processes involved allows us to appreciate the cultural significance of architectural design, and how the skills of designers and craftspeople can shape our built environment.