Sample

Art Historical Context

This charming printed cotton textile sample, dating to around 1840, hails from Mulhouse (Mulhausen), a bustling center of France's textile industry in Als. Produced by an unknown artist, it exemplifies the exquisite floral designs that defined European decorative arts during the early 19th century. Now housed in the Metropolitan Museum of Art's Department of European Sculpture and Decorative Artsthanks to a 1919 gift from F.J. Schaetzel—this piece invites visitors to appreciate the artistry of everyday luxury. Mulhouse was renowned for its innovative printed fabrics, fueled by the Industrial ...