Frieze
1640â50
Medium
ornament
Classification
ornament
Department
Smithsonian Collection
Museum
Smithsonian American Art Museum
Credit
Museum purchase through gift of Mrs. John Innes Kane
Accession Number
1944-24-7-2
About this artwork
Research in Progress
Art Historical Context
Step into the lavish world of 17th French decorative arts with *Frieze* by Jean Le Pautre1618–1682), created around 1640–50. Le Pautre, a engraver and designer who worked in the courtly circles of Louis XIII and early Louis XIV, was renowned for his intricate ornamental prints. This piece, classified as an ornament, exemplifies Baroque era's exuberant style, where scrolling motifs, foliage, and fantastical elements adorned palaces, furniture, and interiors. Friezes like this one served as continuous decorative bands, bridging architecture and fine art. Le Pautre's designs, often etched with r...