Fragment of woven silk by Philippe de la Salle

Fragment of woven silk

Philippe de la Salle · 1760

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“Stop to admire this exquisite silk fragment, a stunning example of 18th-century French textile artistry. Its intricate design and luxurious material reveal the opulence of Rococo fashion and interiors, inviting you to imagine the world it once graced.”

ABOUT THIS WORK

This fragment of woven silk, created around 1760, offers a glimpse into the luxurious textiles that adorned European interiors and fashion during the Rococo period. Its intricate design, featuring delicate floral motifs and ribbons, is a testament to the sophisticated weaving techniques of the era. The silk itself would have shimmered with subtle variations in light, a characteristic highly prized for its ability to enhance the visual depth of such elaborate patterns. This piece likely served as part of an opulent furnishing, perhaps a wall hanging, upholstery, or an article of high-fashion clothing, reflecting the desire for beauty and refinement in 18th-century aristocratic taste. Philippe de la Salle, active in Lyon, France, was a prominent textile designer of this period, known for his innovative use of color and complex patterns that often mimicked painted scenes.

DETAILS
Artist
Philippe de la Salle
Date
1760
Medium
Silk
Location
The Metropolitan Museum of Art
Dimensions
L. 24 x W. 15 inches (61.0 x 38.1 cm)
Collection
European Sculpture and Decorative Arts
Culture
French, Lyons
Credit line
Rogers Fund, 1938
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What to Notice

Four details hide in plain sight. Here’s where to look.

Fragment of woven silk
01

Observe the delicate interplay of light and shadow created by the silk's weave.

02

Look closely at the finely detailed floral sprays and trailing ribbons.

03

Notice the subtle shifts in color that give the pattern a three-dimensional quality.

04

Consider the scale of the pattern, designed for grand settings or garments.

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THE ARTIST

Philippe de la Salle

1723–1804 · France

Philippe de la Salle was a master of 18th-century Lyon silk weaving, known for luxurious textiles like his 'Branche de Corail'.

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