Ethnography · 19th century
€ 230
One of a kind: this is the sheet in the photographs. Ships from Langweer, the Netherlands.
condition overall. Clean and crisp image with saturated original colors. Very light age-toning near outer edges; no tears or repairs. Paper is thick and stable with good margins.
17th Century French Ornament – Baroque Scrollwork and Arabesques, Plate LXXVIII
This exquisite chromolithograph, Plate LXXVIII from the influential 19th-century publication L'Ornement Polychrome, presents a diverse and richly detailed selection of French Baroque ornament from the 17th century. The composition includes twenty panels of decorative motifs, many drawn from wrought ironwork, carved wood, and painted boiserie, showcasing the stylized floral and scroll elements typical of Louis XIII and Louis XIV interior design.
At the center of the sheet is a striking red and blue vertical panel of wrought iron arabesques, featuring a symmetrical display of foliage scrolls, acanthus leaves, anthemion motifs, and a central mask or grotesque—typical of architectural grille work from the period. Flanking this central motif are panels depicting gilded foliate scrolls with stylized pomegranates, flowers, and curling tendrils, often placed on parchment-colored grounds.
Several panels illustrate intricate latticework, recalling the decorative iron or stucco grilles used in ecclesiastical and palace interiors. Other elements suggest embroidered or stenciled textile motifs, indicating the wide application of these designs in period furnishings, wall coverings, and architectural friezes.
The print was chromolithographed by Dufour & Durin and published by Firmin-Didot in Paris around 1869 as part of Auguste Racinet’s project to document historic styles from around the world. Racinet’s collection helped reintroduce classical and Renaissance motifs into 19th-century decorative arts, influencing Art Nouveau, historicist design, and academic architecture.
This plate offers an essential reference for designers, restorers, and collectors interested in the Baroque decorative arts, French interior ornament, and architectural detailing. The variety of motifs makes it particularly valuable for stylistic study and historical inspiration.
Condition: Excellent condition overall. Clean and crisp image with saturated original colors. Very light age-toning near outer edges; no tears or repairs. Paper is thick and stable with good margins.
Framing tips: A classic gold or black-and-gilt frame will enhance the opulence of the ornamentation. Consider a warm ivory or pale gray mount to echo the background tones and bring out the intricate gold work.
Technique: Chromolithograph
Maker: Dufour & Durin after Racinet, Paris, c.1869
