Gilles Paul Cauvet, French, 1731–1788 - Design for a circular ceiling - 1785 - T-Shirt

A linear plan for a circular ceiling, drawn in fine pen and ink, that organises a domed surface into radiating compartments drawing the eye toward a central opening.

Visual Elements & Composition

The design is built from parchment cream, ink grey and pale grey, with dark outlines doing nearly all the work. Wedge-shaped panels alternate with narrow bands and rectangular coffers that step outward from a small central oculus, ringed by concentric circles. Several of the larger panels hold scrolling foliage, shells and volutes, while a round medallion at the centre of two tall panels frames a small group of figures. Garlands of leaves run along the outer edge, and a bracket carrying a mask sits at the lower border. The inscription at lower left reads "Projet de plafond circulaire par G.P. Cauvet, Sculpteur."

Meaning & Symbolism

Gilles Paul Cauvet (1731–1788) was a French sculptor and designer, and this sheet, dated 1785, is his project for a circular ceiling. The coffers and panels show how a large curved surface could be organised into a legible system, with each compartment carrying its own motif. The foliage, shells and figured medallions tie that architectural structure to the classical repertoire of ornament, presenting the ceiling as a setting for painted or carved decoration rather than a plain surface. Plans like this were made to show patrons and craftsmen how the whole scheme would fit together.

Designed for the Wearer

A ceiling plan is meant to be read from below, but on a tee the design sits flat across the chest, so the radial geometry reads as a single composition centred on the wearer. The ruled outlines and freehand ornament stay sharp at close range, letting you follow the medallions and scrolls as you move.