About this sheet
Rococo Motif Ornament – 18th-Century Floral and Allegorical Designs, Plate XCIX
This richly detailed chromolithograph, Plate XCIX from L'Ornement Polychrome, presents a refined selection of 18th-century decorative motifs emblematic of the Rococo period. The print, produced around 1869 under the direction of Auguste Racinet, exemplifies the playful elegance and allegorical richness of Louis XV-era ornament.
At the center of the composition is a large oval panel depicting a neoclassical urn overflowing with flowers—an emblem of abundance and cultivated taste—surrounded by curling acanthus and floral scrollwork in soft pinks and blues. On either side of the central motif are grisaille relief-style ornaments featuring classical cornucopias, vases with grapes, and bundles of wheat and reeds. These trompe-l'œil designs imitate carved plaster or stone and evoke the refined wall decorations found in 18th-century French salons and boudoirs.
Along the bottom of the print are three elegant pendants, each tied with a ribbon and composed of symbolic objects. The leftmost features a scroll, open book, and writing implements—celebrating literature and learning. The center pendant includes fruit, flowers, and a monogrammed letter "M" on a circular plaque, suggesting abundance and courtly exchange. The rightmost design shows a lute, sheet music, and painter’s brushes, symbolizing the fine arts and music.
Lithographed by Launay and printed by Firmin-Didot et Fils in Paris, this plate comes from one of the 19th century’s most influential decorative arts compendiums. Racinet’s L'Ornement Polychrome served as a sourcebook for artists, architects, and craftsmen seeking to revive historical styles in architecture, textiles, wallpaper, and furniture design.
Framing tips: This print’s soft green, gold, and pastel tones would pair well with a muted green or champagne-colored mat and an antique gilt or cream-painted frame. Ideal as part of a Rococo or neoclassical interior theme.
