Architecture & Design
€ 280
One of a kind: this is the sheet in the photographs. Ships from Langweer, the Netherlands.
Image area clean and vibrant with no foxing, tears, or repairs. Slight age toning near the edges. Paper strong and stable with full margins and rich chromolithographic color.
18th Century French Decorative Panels – Neoclassical and Chinoiserie Motifs, Plate LXXXIX
This richly detailed chromolithograph, Plate LXXXIX from *L'Ornement Polychrome*, showcases a series of 18th-century French decorative panels in the neoclassical style with elements of Chinoiserie and grotesque ornament. These designs exemplify the eclectic and theatrical spirit of the Louis XVI period, where classical symmetry met playful exoticism and opulent surface decoration.
The central panel presents a framed pastoral landscape set within an elaborate composition of floral swags, scrolling foliage, vases, drapery, and architectural motifs. The symmetry and framing devices evoke Roman and Renaissance decorative traditions, reimagined with Rococo exuberance. Around this centerpiece are smaller borders and panels featuring a mix of human figures, fantastical animals, and symbolic emblems.
Highlights include:
– A vertical border featuring seated Orientalized figures within medallions, a nod to the 18th-century European fascination with Chinoiserie.
– Mythological or grotesque figures with wings, garlands, or raised arms supporting urns, adding a touch of playful surrealism.
– Decorative motifs such as swans, griffins, exotic birds, baskets of fruit, roses, dolphins, seashells, and neoclassical emblems including fasces and lyres.
– Friezes with profile busts and festive floral scrollwork.
Each component on the sheet illustrates the versatility of 18th-century French design across wall painting, paneling, and applied decorative arts. These types of compositions were common in salons, music rooms, and château interiors, blending theatrical storytelling with ornamental mastery.
This plate was lithographed by G. Sancier and printed by Firmin-Didot in Paris around 1869, as part of Auguste Racinet’s influential *L'Ornement Polychrome*. The work helped document and revive historical styles for 19th-century artists, architects, and interior designers.
Condition: Excellent. Image area clean and vibrant with no foxing, tears, or repairs. Slight age toning near the edges. Paper strong and stable with full margins and rich chromolithographic color.
Framing tips: A Neoclassical gold frame or walnut with gilt detail works beautifully. Use a warm ivory or parchment-colored mat to complement the ochre and red tones. Ideal for traditional or eclectic historic interiors.
Technique: Chromolithograph
Maker: G. Sancier after Racinet, Paris, c.1869
