Le Bain d'Amour (Love Bath) (Furnishing Fabric)

Favre-Petitpierre et cie, 1820

MEDIUMCotton, copperplate printed
DIMENSIONS119.4 × 66 cm (47 × 26 in.)
LOCATIONArt Institute of Chicago
COLLECTIONTextiles
CULTURENantes
CREDIT LINEGift of Mrs. Potter Palmer, II

Step into a charming 19th-century fantasy with this fabric, where playful cherubs enjoy a "Love Bath" amidst classical grandeur. It's a delightful peek into the decorative arts of the era, showcasing intricate copperplate printing.

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ABOUT THIS WORK

This furnishing fabric, titled "Le Bain d'Amour" or "Love Bath," transports us to a whimsical scene where cherubs frolic amidst classical architecture and lush gardens. The design, printed in a single color, likely a deep indigo or sepia, suggests the elegance of Neoclassical taste, popular in the early 19th century. We see a central fountain, its water cascading into a basin where several putti (childlike figures) splash and play. Surrounding them are grand columns, draped fabrics, and abundant foliage, creating an idyllic setting that blends mythological themes with a sense of playful innocence. The intricate details, from the delicate ruffles on the cherubs' wings to the texture of the leaves, are a testament to the copperplate printing technique used, which allowed for fine lines and subtle shading on cotton.

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What to Notice

1

Look for the cherub playfully splashing water from the fountain's basin.

2

Notice the classical columns and draped fabric framing the central scene.

3

Spot the tiny birds perched among the leaves in the upper corners.

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Audio Deep Dive

Step into a charming 19th-century fantasy with this fabric, where playful cherubs enjoy a "Love Bath" amidst classical grandeur. It's a delightful peek into th…

Hear the full story in the app
THE ARTIST
Favre-Petitpierre et cie

French textile firm that turned cotton yardage into narrative art, printing Homer and Napoleon onto your curtains.

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