A Collection of Secrets

Upon first glance, the façade of Sir Paul Pindar's home is admirable due to the intricacy of the woodwork. However, after learning more about his character, the façade he chose to build around his private life is far more captivating. The contrast between his public image as a highly respected merchant and his private life is reflected through the architecture of his home. While he displays facts about himself such as his social status and his occupation, he chooses to keep a beautifully intricate design hidden from the public. This implies a difference in character while he is in society and while in the comfort of his home. As I learned more about this artifact, I was reminded of the Johari Window Model that I learned about in my interpersonal communication class. This model asserts that there are four areas of self-concept. The open self is known to both oneself and to others and the blind self is what others know about you yet you do not know about yourself. The unknown self is not known by either oneself or others while the hidden self is known by the individual yet not shared with others. Paul Pindar's home is a representation of the hidden self. He is aware of a more delicate temperament within himself however chooses to portray a strong and noble image to society. The resilience of his home to survive the Great Fire of 1666 is reflective of his hardworking nature as a merchant. His affluence and connections both globally and with the monarchy is portrayed through the curved glass as he is connected to the various aspects of his personality. 

This tapestry made by Jean-Baptiste Monnoyer utilizes contrast similarly to the façade of Sir Paul Pindar's home. The bright colors and whimsical scene beautifully contrasts the architecture within the tapestry. While the characters are located near well-established structures, they are depicted performing unconventional activities such as hanging from a trapeze bar. Their costume attire further adds to the element of fantasy. The depiction of animals not only inside but also in the center of focus advances the playful scene. Performers flying in the air wearing butterfly wings surrounded by plants incorporates fundamental principles present in society at the time. In the 18th century when this tapestry was made, Romanticism was beginning to originate in Europe. The idea of being one with nature and living in harmony with it is clearly portrayed. The performance inside of a conventional building conveys the act of embracing new ways of thinking. Various ideals associated with the rise of Romanticism and naturalism are present in this tapestry. The violinist in the lower left corner is symbolic of the flourishing of music and learning at this time. There is a diverse number of entertainers which represents an increase in accepting new ideas and the expansion of the definition of art. The parrots located in the upper corners appear to be conversing with each other. This may be a demonstration of the value of sharing ideas. Additionally, through portraying an animal as a being capable of possessing knowledge, it may be assumed that Monnoyer agrees with the common belief at this time that there is information to be gained from nature. Lastly, the person entering into the scene from the right parallels the entering into a new era full of advancing knowledge. Romanticism will continue into the 19th century and the ideas which Monnoyer's tapestry convey validated.