Panel of upholstery silk by Philippe de la Salle

Panel of upholstery silk

Philippe de la Salle · 1765

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“Step into the opulence of 18th-century France with this exquisite silk panel. Its overflowing floral design and shimmering texture offer a glimpse into the luxurious textiles that defined Rococo elegance.”

ABOUT THIS WORK

This vibrant panel of upholstery silk, dating to 1765, brings a piece of 18th-century French luxury vividly to life. Imagine this textile adorning furniture in a grand Parisian salon, its intricate design catching the light. The pattern here is a riot of natural motifs, a hallmark of the Rococo style, but with a grandeur that hints at the burgeoning Neoclassical aesthetic. We see large, cascading floral arrangements, their petals and leaves rendered with remarkable detail, almost overflowing the frame. The silk itself, a testament to the era's advanced weaving techniques, would have shimmered with subtle changes in color and texture as viewers moved around it, a true marvel of craftsmanship. This particular piece, created by Philippe de la Salle, showcases the inventiveness and technical skill that made Lyon a center for textile production, influencing fashion and interior design across Europe.

DETAILS
Artist
Philippe de la Salle
Date
1765
Medium
Silk
Location
The Metropolitan Museum of Art
Dimensions
L. 21 1/2 x W. 16 inches (54.6 x 40.6 cm)
Collection
European Sculpture and Decorative Arts
Culture
French, Lyons
Credit line
Rogers Fund, 1938
LOOK CLOSER

What to Notice

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

Panel of upholstery silk
01

Observe the delicate shading on the flower petals, giving them a three-dimensional quality.

02

Look for the subtle variations in silk texture, creating depth within the pattern.

03

Notice the way the floral elements seem to burst from the center, creating a dynamic composition.

04

Identify the small, intricate details in the leaves and tendrils, indicating meticulous weaving.

AUDIO DEEP DIVE

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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'.

Read de la Salle’s full story
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