Upholstery passementerie by Philippe de la Salle

Upholstery passementerie

Philippe de la Salle · 1750

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“This luxurious silk passementerie, or decorative trim, from 1750, reveals the exquisite detail and material opulence that defined 18th-century French interior design, transforming everyday furniture into works of art.”

ABOUT THIS WORK

This long, narrow strip of silk passementerie, dating to around 1750, offers a glimpse into the opulent world of 18th-century French interiors. It isn't merely a decorative trim; it's a testament to the era's dedication to elaborate ornamentation, designed to adorn upholstery, curtains, or even fashionable garments. Imagine this rich silk, with its intricate weave and delicate sheen, as part of a grand salon, catching the light and adding a layer of sophisticated detail to a chair or sofa. The artistry lies in the material itself, silk, which was a luxury commodity, and the precise, time-consuming craft of passementerie. While we don't know its exact original placement, its length suggests it likely graced a significant piece of furniture, perhaps outlining the curves of a bergère or framing a window, transforming the functional into something truly extraordinary. The artist, Philippe de la Salle, was a designer known for his textile work, and this piece showcases the refined aesthetic prevalent in the mid-18th century.

DETAILS
Artist
Philippe de la Salle
Date
1750
Medium
Silk
Location
The Metropolitan Museum of Art
Dimensions
L. 240 x W. 1 1/4 inches (609.6 x 3.2 cm)
Collection
European Sculpture and Decorative Arts
Culture
French
Credit line
Rogers Fund, 1950
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What to Notice

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

Upholstery passementerie
01

Observe the subtle sheen of the silk, even after centuries.

02

Look closely at the intricate, repeating pattern within the weave.

03

Notice the delicate edges, indicating its use as a trim.

04

Imagine its original vibrant color before time softened it.

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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