Carved Panel and Ornament 1774 - 1775

Joseph Wright of Derby created this pencil sketch titled, "Carved Panel and Ornament." Wright was a leading artist in the 18th century, a period marked by the rise of the Enlightenment and burgeoning industrialization. Here, Wright diverges from the grand narratives of history painting, turning instead to the decorative arts, offering us a glimpse into the aesthetic values of his time. The sketch presents designs for carved panels and ornaments, showcasing the neoclassical style popular among the British elite. Interestingly, the detailed drawings also contain references to human forms and classical motifs. Two winged figures hover around a central object, alluding to classical mythology. It is a reminder that even in ornamentation, stories and cultural values are embedded. While we can appreciate the beauty and skill in Wright's designs, they also prompt questions about the historical narratives and social structures that these objects might have served.