Hanging c. 18th century

This ‘Hanging’ at the Minneapolis Institute of Art, made by an anonymous artist, presents a captivating interplay of textile artistry. The work is organized around a series of symmetrical floral motifs, rendered in a striking palette of red and blue against a neutral ground. The arrangement creates a rhythmic visual cadence, drawing the eye through the patterns. Each floral element is meticulously crafted. The juxtaposition of the vibrant floral shapes against the muted background generates a dynamic tension. The use of symmetry and repetition points to underlying structures which provide a framework for understanding the piece. The artist seems interested in disrupting the notion of a fixed centre through the organization of repeating motifs across the entire surface. In this context, the ‘Hanging’ becomes more than just a decorative object. It embodies a complex dialogue between structure and surface, inviting us to consider how formal elements communicate ideas and challenge our perceptions.