Album of Drawings in Color for Waistcoats 1780 - 1825

Editor: Here we have Jean François Bony's "Album of Drawings in Color for Waistcoats," dating from between 1780 and 1825, a tempera drawing printed on paper. I’m immediately struck by the floral motifs; there's an elegance here that feels almost dreamlike. What can you tell me about its formal qualities? Curator: Observe the meticulous arrangement of the floral elements. The rhythmic repetition of shapes and forms, particularly the curvature of the leaves and the radial symmetry of the flowers, create a visually pleasing pattern. Notice the strategic placement of light and shadow that defines the volumes of each component. Are you drawn to any specific juxtaposition? Editor: I noticed that. How the crispness of the white against the backdrop creates a great deal of depth. Can you talk about the paper's importance as a base? Curator: Certainly. The paper’s surface, a key element, functions as more than just a ground. Its texture subtly interacts with the applied media, influencing the final appearance. It is critical in setting the scene for a harmonious arrangement of colour, shape and motif. Notice that Bony masterfully contrasts various design elements, enhancing the textural richness of each image. Do you believe that it supports Bony’s expressionist goal, given the structural elements used to produce it? Editor: The texture and pattern on the waistcoats would really make it stand out, so I think that the texture is definitely very appropriate to this piece. I appreciate you describing the paper base. I tend to just look past it. Thank you! Curator: It's important to not gloss over materials! Examining its materiality shows that this album demonstrates the meticulous artistry that elevates craft to the realm of high art, reminding us that design holds intrinsic artistic value.