Design for a Vase
Classification
Department
Smithsonian Collection
Museum
Smithsonian American Art Museum
Credit
Purchased for the Museum by the Advisory Council
Accession Number
1921-6-471-41
About this artwork
Research in Progress
Art Historical Context
Ennemond Alexandre Petitot (172–1801), a artist and designer active during the lavish Louis XV era, created *Design for a Vase in 1764. This period marked the height of Rococo exuberance in French decorative arts, where intricate vase designs adorned palaces and homes of the elite. Petitot's work reflects the era's emphasis on elegant ornamentation, blending symmetry and flourish in functional yet artistic objects. Classified as a print, piece likely served as a reproducible blueprint for artisans crafting luxury ceramics or silverwork. Prints were vital in the 18th century for sharing design...