Artwork

Composition florale et guirlandes de fleurs et de plumes de paon, projets de broderies de gilet, XVIIIème siècle

Composition florale et guirlandes de fleurs et de plumes de paon, projets de broderies de gilet, XVIIIème siècle is a drawing by Anonyme. It dates from 1750 and is held in the collection of the Palais Galliera - Musée de la Mode de la Ville de Paris. The drawing, attributed to an anonymous hand and dated to around 1750, is a design sketch for embroidered waistcoat panels.

About this work

Overview

The drawing, attributed to an anonymous hand and dated to around 1750, is a design sketch for embroidered waistcoat panels. It is part of the collection of the Museum of Ethnography. The composition consists of three diamond‑shaped sections filled with stylised flowers and peacock feather motifs, each framed by a dark purple border on a light beige ground.

Subject & Meaning

The motif combines delicate wildflowers with the opulent texture of peacock plumage, juxtaposing modest botanical elements with a symbol of luxury. The inclusion of the marginal note patron moyen suggests the pattern was intended for a middle‑class patron, indicating a balance between decorative richness and accessible fashion.

Technique & Style

Rendered in soft pinks, blues and greens, the drawing mimics the appearance of stitched embroidery, with fine lines that outline each element. The use of a diamond layout reflects eighteenth‑century textile design conventions, while the restrained palette and precise contouring convey a refined, courtly aesthetic typical of French decorative arts of the period.

History & Provenance

Created circa 1750, the sketch entered the Museum of Ethnography’s holdings through an acquisition of eighteenth‑century costume and textile materials. Its anonymous authorship is common for pattern books of the era, which were often produced for commercial use rather than signed by individual designers.

Composition avec bouquets et guirlandes de fleurs et phasme sur branche, projets de broderies de gilet, XVIIIème siècle, Anonyme

Artist & collection

Artist

Anonyme

A French designer from the 1700s made delicate flower drawings meant to decorate vests.

Museum

Palais Galliera - Musée de la Mode de la Ville de Paris

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