Botany · 19th century
€ 230
One of a kind: this is the sheet in the photographs. Ships from Langweer, the Netherlands.
Crisp impression with vibrant, unfaded colors. No visible foxing or tears. Slight toning to the margins, well within the acceptable range for age.
Rococo Panel Ornament – French Floral and Gilt Wall Designs, Plate XCVII, 18th Century
This richly detailed chromolithograph, Plate XCVII from *L'Ornement Polychrome*, presents a vivid selection of Rococo vertical panel decorations from the 18th century. These ornamental designs, characterized by their graceful scrolls, lavish florals, and classical motifs, embody the elegance and theatricality of Louis XV and early Louis XVI interiors.
The plate features three prominent vertical panels flanked by delicate side motifs. Each panel is meticulously illustrated with lavish elements, including:
– Gilded cartouches and meanders
– Ribbons entwined with vines and garlands
– Classical bust medallions and urns
– Playful birds and natural floral bouquets cascading from vases
The central panel showcases a symmetrical arrangement of flowers suspended from scrolling acanthus leaves and hanging garlands. Its gilded architectural framework features classical motifs like anthemions and arabesques. A vibrant lion head medallion anchors the bottom portion, adding an element of mythological grandeur.
The side panels contrast this with pastel backgrounds and bold Rococo detailing. On the left, bouquets of roses and carnations emerge from elegant vases and trumpet forms, framing a diamond-shaped cameo bust. On the right, a blue urn is suspended by floral swags, with birds perched playfully amidst the garlands—typical of the decorative frivolity of the Rococo aesthetic.
Originally designed for interior wall panels, furniture, and decorative painting in aristocratic homes, these ornaments illustrate how art and architecture were seamlessly integrated in the 18th century. This particular plate was lithographed by Launey and published by Firmin-Didot et Fils in Paris around 1869 as part of the influential decorative arts reference *L'Ornement Polychrome*, edited by Auguste Racinet.
Condition: Excellent. Crisp impression with vibrant, unfaded colors. No visible foxing or tears. Slight toning to the margins, well within the acceptable range for age.
Framing tips: A slender gold or antique white frame with a sage green or cream mat will complement the bright floral colors and pastel tones. Ideal as a decorative wall piece in classical, eclectic, or French-inspired interiors.
Technique: Chromolithograph
Maker: Launey after Racinet, Paris, c.1869
