Designs for Armchair Covers (Back and Seat)
Medium
Classification
Department
Smithsonian Collection
Museum
Smithsonian American Art Museum
Credit
Purchased for the Museum by the Advisory Council
Accession Number
1921-6-389-120
About this artwork
Research in Progress
Art Historical Context
Created in 1778 by French designer Pierre Ranson (1736–1786), *Designs for Armchair (Back and Seat)* a delicate print showcasing intricate patterns intended for luxurious furniture upholstery. As a specialist in ornamental designs during the late Ancien Régime, Ranson captured the elegance of Louis XVI-era aesthetics, where furniture became a canvas for refined decoration. This work, now in the Smithsonian American Art Museum's (purchased by the Advisory Council), exemplifies prints served as blueprints for artisans crafting seat backs and cushions for the aristocracy. Printed designs like th...