Vaas en raamwerk van ijzer before 1889

This image presents ironwork designs—a vase and a window frame—dating back to the 16th, 17th, and 18th centuries by an anonymous maker. During this time, ironwork served both practical and symbolic functions, particularly in religious contexts. These decorative elements, often found in churches and aristocratic homes, speak to the period's social hierarchy, where art served to underscore class distinctions. The floral motif adorning the vase mirrors the delicate balance between nature and artifice, reflecting the aesthetic values of the elite. The openwork of the window frame allows for light and air, but it also creates a barrier, suggesting the complex relationship between enclosure and exposure, privacy, and the public gaze. The creation of ironwork transcends mere craft, elevating the medium to high art, the mastery of which requires a sophisticated combination of artistry and breath. Consider how artisans of the time adapted traditional forms to express their visions, and how their work invited contemplation and reflected their identity and place within a highly stratified society.