The Characteristics of French Textile Pattern Design Reflected in Ladies’ Robes in 18th-Century Painting

Abstract

Background The French silk textile of the 18th century was highly creative and innovative and was regarded as the best of its kind in Europe for its quality and design. In addition, the textile design in the 18th century has continuously inspired contemporary textile designers. The objective of this study is to research the characteristics of the Rococo textile pattern design. Methods The characteristics of the Rococo textile design reflected in ladies’ robes in 18thcentury European paintings were studied and analyzed using information from foreign and domestic literatures and web sites. Results The 18th century French silk textile designs utilized realistic imagery, not only of flowers, but also of motifs such as lace, ribbon and tassels as well, due to the technical invention called “point rentre”. Also, based on the rocaille leitmotif, the serpentine layout was developed, which allowed patterns to be arranged in sinuous curves. French silk designers went further to invent the chine and moire techniques. French ladies of the upper class were so enchanted by embellishing their robes that various decorative elements were developed into new design motifs. Conclusions The 18th century French textile designs not only reflected upper-class ladies’ lives and their fashionable tastes, but the design also became part of their lives. The designers of the 18th century showed ceaseless efforts to invent avant-garde designs and fabric techniques. This very creative attitude to approaching design is echoed to this day and will continue to do so in developing innovative textile design.