Artwork

Livre de Tables

Livre de Tables, by Pierre Lepautre, ink, 1702
Livre de Tables, by Pierre Lepautre, ink, 1702

Livre de Tables is an ink print by the Baroque artist Pierre Lepautre. It dates from 1702 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

About this work

Overview

Pierre Lepautre's 1702 etching, Livre de Tables, presents a visual representation of two ornate fireplace mantels adorned with an assortment of decorative objects, blending everyday items with whimsical elements.

Subject & Meaning

The etching showcases two mantels laden with elaborate objects, including animal-shaped containers, vases, and a cherub on a shell. These compositions transform mundane items into playful, exaggerated forms, highlighting Lepautre's emphasis on decorative flair and whimsy.

Technique & Style

Executed in etching, the work demonstrates Lepautre's skill in the medium, capturing intricate details such as carved swirls, leaves, and facial motifs on the mantels, alongside the textured, lifelike rendering of objects like the bird teapot's wings.

History & Provenance

Created in 1702, the etching's provenance and historical context beyond its creation date are not detailed in available information.

Context

Livre de Tables reflects the ornate aesthetics of its time, possibly catering to the decorative tastes of the early 18th century, though specific contextual influences or inspirations are not explicitly documented.

Legacy

The enduring appeal of Livre de Tables lies in its showcase of Lepautre's artistic interpretation of decorative arts, offering a glimpse into 18th-century design sensibilities, though its broader impact on subsequent art movements or designers is not prominently recorded.

Artist & collection

This work is in the public domain (CC0). Image source: National Gallery of Art open access. Spotted an error in this record? Tell us.