Collection de Meubles et Objets de Goût, vol. 1

Art Historical Context

**Collection de Meubles et Ob de Goût, vol. 1** (1802–07) is a stunning volume from the early 19th century, by Pierre de La Mangère, editor of influential *Journal des Dames et Modes*, with contributions from engraver Babin. This captures the elegance of French Directoire and early Empire style, showcasing meticulously rendered designs for furniture, decorative objects, and interiors—like the lavish curtains highlighted in its plates. Acquired through the Harris Brisbane Dick Fund in1930, it now resides in The Metropolitan Museum of Art's Drawings and Prints department, standing at 16¼ x 11½ x 2¾ inches. Hand-colored engravings bring these pages to life, a technique that allowed for vibrant, realistic depictions of luxurious textiles and furnishings, making high fashion accessible to an aspiring elite. La Mésangère's publication played a pivotal role in shaping European taste, disseminating Neoclassical motifs inspired by ancient Greece and Rome through affordable printed media. Visitors will appreciate how this volume reflects the era's obsession with refined domesticity, bridging art and everyday luxury. Leaf through its folios to envision Napoleonic-era salons alive with draped opulence!

About the Artist

Pierre de La Mésangère|Journal des Dames et des Modes|Babin (French|French) · 1761 | –1831 |

French, Pontigné 1761–1831 Paris|