Blog assignment 2 (Continuing Curve)

Chippendale Rococo Mirror, 1762. 

Fine rococo carving, with flowers, leaves, bullrushes and birds.

The image is taken from: http://www.furniturestyles.net/european/english/mid-georgian.html

 

I believe that the existence of the Continuing Curve in design is a consequence of ” sensuous impulse” which is according to P. Hunter-Stiebel is a “human desire to appeal the senses with a softened form. The trend of using curved lines in design reached it’s peak in Rococo  in the middle of 18^th century period from 30^th to 70^th, which was the time when people were pleased with  soft undulating feminine forms, inspired by nature. They were surrounded by expensive over decorated furniture and everyday things, Shouting about their wealth, designed following the S-curve in their soft shapes and smooth surfaces.

A historical example of the “Continuing Curve” could be a Chippendale Rococo Mirror, 1762, you can see on the picture above. It is decorated a lot with natural shapes and carving such as flowers and birds. It looks quite expensive pointing out it’s owner’s wealth and daring taste.

 Wiggle Chair by Fank Gehry 1972

The image is taken from: http://www.furniturefashion.com/2009/02/10/the_wiggle_chair_cardboard_furniture_from_frank_gehry_and_vitra.html 

 

Finally, as can be seen on the second picture, two centuries later the “Continuing curve” finds it’s reflection in the Wiggle Chair designed by quite famous postmodern designer Frank Gehry in 1972. The S-curve and the softness of the shape can be clearly seen in that work, however the chair doesn’t seem to look extravagant, the material and the style are very different and innovative.