Lampe
Medium
Classification
Department
Smithsonian Collection
Museum
Smithsonian American Art Museum
Credit
Purchased for the Museum by the Advisory Council
Accession Number
1921-6-313-47
About this artwork
Research in Progress
Art Historical Context
Created in 1748 by French artist Pierre Germain, *Lampe* is a fine example of eighteenth-century printmaking. Working during the height of the Rococo period, Germain was known his elegant designs, often produced as engravings that served both as works of art and practical references for craftsmen. As a print rather than a unique painting or object, this work reflects the era’s growing interest in sharing ornamental ideas across Europe through affordable, reproducible media. The title *Lampe* suggests the image depicts a lamp, possibly intended as a design for silver, bronze, or furniture make...