The turn of the 20th century marked a pivotal period in residential interior design, characterized by a significant departure from the ornate sensibilities of the late Victorian era. This time saw the emergence of styles that prioritized practicality, craftsmanship, and a connection to nature, laying foundational groundwork for modern aesthetics. Understanding the design principles of this specific year offers insight into a transformative phase where comfort and functional beauty began to gain prominence.
1. Transition from Victorian Opulence
Interiors of this period shifted away from the heavy draperies, abundant clutter, and dark color schemes typical of the Victorian age. A move towards lighter, more open spaces with simpler lines became evident, reflecting a desire for less formal living environments.
2. Influence of Arts and Crafts Movement
A significant driver of design principles was the Arts and Crafts movement. This philosophy championed handcrafted goods, natural materials (especially wood), and honest construction. Furniture and decorative elements often featured exposed joinery and utilitarian forms, emphasizing quality and artisanal skill over mass production.
3. Emergence of Defined Spaces and Functionality
While still retaining some formal rooms, there was a growing emphasis on distinct functional areas within homes. Kitchens became more efficient, and living spaces were designed for comfort and gathering, moving away from purely decorative displays.
4. Characteristic Color Palettes
Color schemes favored muted, earthy tones. Greens, browns, creams, blues, and grays were common, often inspired by natural landscapes. These palettes contributed to a sense of calm and understated elegance within living spaces.
5. Furnishings and Materials
Solid wood furniture, particularly oak, was highly prevalent. Pieces were sturdy, often rectilinear, and sometimes incorporated motifs from the Arts and Crafts tradition, such as mission-style designs. Textiles included natural fibers like linen, cotton, and wool, often featuring subtle patterns or solid colors.
6. Lighting Innovations
This era witnessed the ongoing transition from gas lighting to electricity in many homes. Fixtures ranged from ornate gasoliers (sometimes converted to electric) to simpler, more functional electric sconces and chandeliers. Stained glass lamps, like those popularized by Tiffany, also provided distinctive illumination and artistic accents.
Four Tips for Capturing the Era’s Aesthetic:
1. Prioritize Natural Wood: Incorporate solid, unpainted wood furniture, particularly in oak or mahogany, showcasing natural grains and robust construction.
2. Embrace Earth-Toned Colors: Select a palette of muted greens, browns, creams, blues, or grays for walls and textiles to create a serene and grounded atmosphere.
3. Integrate Handcrafted Elements: Seek out pottery, hand-loomed textiles, stained glass, or wrought iron pieces that reflect an appreciation for artisanal skill and natural forms.
4. Simplify and Declutter: Adopt a less-is-more approach compared to Victorian styles, allowing individual pieces to stand out and creating more open, functional spaces.
What defined the predominant aesthetic of residential interiors during this specific year?
The prevailing aesthetic was characterized by a move towards simplicity, functionality, and craftsmanship, largely influenced by the Arts and Crafts movement. This meant a reduction in excessive ornamentation and an emphasis on natural materials and sturdy construction.
Were there specific color schemes or palettes commonly used in residences of this time?
Yes, popular palettes leaned towards muted, natural, and earthy tones. Colors such as olive green, deep terracotta, dusty rose, sage green, cream, and various shades of brown and blue were frequently employed, often inspired by the surrounding landscape.
What furniture styles were typically found in homes from this period?
Mission style and other Arts and Crafts-inspired furniture were highly popular. These pieces were generally made from solid wood, often oak, with straightforward lines, exposed joinery, and a focus on durability and practicality. Colonial Revival styles also maintained a presence.
How did lighting solutions contribute to the ambiance of domestic spaces?
Lighting transitioned from gas to early electric fixtures, offering both practical illumination and decorative elements. Fixtures ranged from simple, functional designs to those incorporating stained glass or wrought iron, contributing to a warm, inviting, and often subtle glow.
What materials were commonly utilized in the decorative elements and construction of homes during this time?
Wood, particularly oak, was a primary material for furniture, trim, and sometimes wall paneling. Other common materials included copper, brass, wrought iron for fixtures, natural fibers like linen, cotton, and wool for textiles, and ceramic tiles for fireplaces and floors.
How did this era of interior design influence subsequent design trends?
This period laid crucial groundwork for modern design by advocating for functionalism, simplicity, and an appreciation for quality craftsmanship over superficial adornment. Its principles of integrated design and honesty in materials directly influenced the later development of modernism and continue to resonate in contemporary design.
The design ethos prevalent in residential interiors during this specific year represents a crucial turning point, moving away from past excesses towards a more refined, functional, and artisanal approach. Its enduring appeal lies in the timeless qualities of natural materials, expert craftsmanship, and a sense of harmonious, livable space, continuing to inspire design enthusiasts and practitioners seeking authenticity and lasting beauty.
7. Simpler, functional designs
The emergence of simpler, functional designs stands as a cornerstone of residential interiors during 1910, representing a significant ideological and aesthetic departure from prior eras. This shift was primarily driven by a collective rejection of the visual clutter and heavy ornamentation characteristic of late Victorian sensibilities. The societal changes of the period, including the rise of a robust middle class and a gradual decline in domestic service, necessitated home environments that were easier to maintain and more practical for daily living. Furthermore, philosophical movements such as the Arts and Crafts, which championed honest craftsmanship, natural materials, and utility, profoundly influenced this direction. Consequently, residential spaces began to prioritize utility and efficiency, with design elements selected for their inherent purpose rather than purely decorative excess. Real-life manifestations included the increasing popularity of built-in cabinetry and shelving, which streamlined storage and reduced the need for freestanding, often ornate, furniture. Window treatments became less voluminous, allowing more natural light, and wall coverings moved towards less intricate patterns or solid, muted colors, contributing to a sense of openness and airiness previously uncommon.
Further analysis reveals how this emphasis on functionality permeated every aspect of a home’s design. Kitchens transformed into more efficient workspaces, equipped with purposeful layouts and dedicated areas for food preparation. Living rooms, while still retaining a degree of formality, were increasingly designed for comfort and practical social interaction rather than mere display. Furniture, particularly styles like Mission, exemplified this ethos: pieces were robust, often rectilinear, constructed from solid woods like oak with exposed joinery that celebrated craftsmanship over superfluous adornment. These items were built to last and to serve a clear purpose, eschewing delicate carvings or overly elaborate upholstery. Architecturally, the widespread adoption of the Bungalow style during this time perfectly illustrates the integration of simpler, functional designs. Bungalows featured practical floor plans, efficient use of space, and incorporated built-in elements such as bookcases, window seats, and buffets, maximizing utility within a compact footprint. Understanding this intrinsic connection between design and function is crucial for appreciating the foundational principles of 1910 decor, informing accurate historical preservation and design inspiration.
In summary, the integration of simpler, functional designs into home decor around 1910 marks a critical pivot in interior aesthetics, prioritizing utility, structural honesty, and ease of maintenance over ostentation. This transformation was not merely a stylistic preference but a response to evolving societal needs and philosophical influences, establishing a new paradigm for residential living. The lasting significance of this shift is profound; it laid essential groundwork for the development of 20th-century modernism, where principles of efficiency, truth to materials, and user-centric design became paramount. The challenges involved striking a balance between utility and retaining a sense of warmth or individual character, which designers of the era navigated through thoughtful material selection and artisanal detailing. Ultimately, the sustained focus on simplicity and functionality during this period represents a crucial step towards contemporary understandings of comfortable and effective domestic environments.
8. Arts and Crafts ethos
The Arts and Crafts ethos stands as a foundational and pervasive influence on residential interiors during 1910, profoundly shaping the aesthetic and philosophical underpinnings of home decor. This movement, originating in the late 19th century, emerged as a direct reaction against the perceived soullessness of industrialization, the decline of traditional craftsmanship, and the excessive ornamentation of the Victorian era. Its core tenets valuing handicraft over mass production, promoting honesty in materials and construction, emphasizing simplicity and utility in design, and fostering a connection to nature became integral to the prevailing design sensibilities of the period. This provided not merely a stylistic preference but a comprehensive philosophy for creating functional, beautiful, and authentic domestic environments. The cause-and-effect relationship is evident: the philosophical rejection of machine-made artifice directly led to an embrace of handcrafted elements, natural textures, and robust forms in furniture, textiles, and architectural detailing found within homes of this year. Understanding the Arts and Crafts ethos is therefore crucial; it is not merely a component but the very ideological engine driving the distinct character of 1910 decor.
Real-life manifestations of this connection are numerous and discernible across various elements of the home. Furniture design, for instance, saw the widespread popularity of Mission style pieces, directly reflecting Arts and Crafts principles. These items featured solid, often unadorned, oak construction, exposed joinery celebrating the artisan’s skill, and rectilinear forms that emphasized utility and durability over elaborate carving. Materials were chosen for their inherent qualities: unpainted wood, natural fibers such as linen and cotton for textiles, and hammered copper or wrought iron for fixtures and decorative accents. Ceramic tiles, often handmade and featuring simple, natural motifs, were frequently used for fireplace surrounds and entryways, integrating art into everyday functional components. Built-in cabinetry, window seats, and robust wooden trim further underscored a holistic design approach where architecture and interior furnishings were conceived as a unified, handcrafted whole, often reflecting regional materials and traditions. The color palettes, favoring muted, earthy tonesgreens, browns, creams, and blueswere also a direct extension of the movement’s reverence for nature, creating a serene and grounded atmosphere within the home. The practical significance of recognizing this profound influence lies in accurately interpreting period design, informing historically sensitive restoration projects, and appreciating the lasting legacy of a movement that championed integrity and craftsmanship in an increasingly industrialized world.
In conclusion, the Arts and Crafts ethos was not simply a trend but a defining philosophical framework that dictated the aesthetics, materiality, and functional layout of residential interiors in 1910. Its profound impact resulted in a departure from earlier ornate styles, yielding homes characterized by simplicity, robust craftsmanship, and an inherent connection to natural elements. While the movement championed individual artistry, a challenge arose in balancing these ideals with the practicalities of broader dissemination and affordability. Despite these complexities, the principles established during this periodhonesty in materials, the beauty of utility, and the celebration of the artisanleft an indelible mark on subsequent design movements. This deep connection between the Arts and Crafts ethos and the prevailing home decor of 1910 highlights a pivotal moment in design history, where ethical considerations regarding production and consumption began to shape the very fabric of domestic life, ultimately contributing to the foundational tenets of modern design.
9. Natural woods, honest craftsmanship
The principles of natural woods and honest craftsmanship constituted a fundamental pillar of residential interior design around 1910, serving as a direct counterpoint to the perceived excesses and artificiality of earlier Victorian sensibilities. This emphasis was not merely a stylistic choice but a philosophical stance, largely driven by the Arts and Crafts movement’s advocacy for integrity in materials, transparency in construction, and the celebration of the artisan’s skill. This particular period witnessed a profound appreciation for materials that revealed their inherent beauty and for objects whose fabrication methods were evident, contributing significantly to the distinct character and enduring appeal of home decor from this era.
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Material Authenticity and Purity
A defining characteristic was the preference for unadorned, solid wood, particularly oak, mahogany, and sometimes chestnut, often left with natural finishes that highlighted the grain rather than obscuring it with paint or heavy stains. This commitment to material authenticity meant a rejection of veneers or simulated finishes, prioritizing the inherent beauty and tactile quality of the wood itself. Furniture, paneling, and architectural details showcased the natural variations and robust character of these timbers, establishing a sense of warmth, solidity, and groundedness within domestic spaces. This approach ensured that the material contributed directly to the aesthetic, rather than being merely a substrate for decorative embellishments.
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Structural Transparency and Exposed Joinery
Honest craftsmanship was vividly expressed through the transparency of construction. Rather than concealing joints and structural elements, the design ethos celebrated them as integral to the object’s form and function. Exposed mortise and tenon joints, dovetail connections, and visible pegging were common features in furniture, particularly in Mission style pieces, serving both a functional and an aesthetic purpose. This transparency communicated the skill of the artisan and the durability of the piece, contrasting sharply with mass-produced items where such details were often hidden or simulated. It fostered an appreciation for how things were made, elevating the utilitarian aspects of an object to an artistic level.
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Artisanal Skill and Customization
The era fostered a resurgence of respect for individual artisanal skill. Homes often featured custom-built elements, ranging from bespoke furniture pieces to integrated architectural components like built-in bookcases, window seats, and buffets. These were frequently crafted by skilled woodworkers who understood both design principles and the properties of their materials. The emphasis was on creating objects and spaces tailored to individual needs and a harmonious overall design, rather than relying on generic, factory-produced items. This personalized approach imbrued interiors with a unique character and a sense of permanence that resonated with the Arts and Crafts ideal.
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Integration with Interior Architecture
The connection between natural woods and honest craftsmanship extended seamlessly into the architectural fabric of the home. Exposed beams, substantial wooden trim, wainscoting, and wooden ceilings were common, blurring the lines between structural elements and decorative features. This integration created cohesive environments where furniture and built-in components felt like extensions of the dwelling itself. The uniform use of robust, natural woods throughout the interior spaces contributed to a sense of unity and continuity, ensuring that the honesty of materials and construction was a pervasive theme, from the smallest decorative item to the largest architectural feature.
The unwavering dedication to natural woods and honest craftsmanship in 1910 home decor represents a foundational shift towards a more authentic and enduring aesthetic. This approach yielded environments characterized by their integrity, durability, and a profound connection to the hand of the maker, departing significantly from the more superficial ornamentation of preceding eras. The principles established during this periodprioritizing inherent material beauty and transparent constructionlaid critical groundwork for subsequent modern design movements, underscoring the lasting value of quality, utility, and genuine artistry in shaping domestic spaces.
10. Mission, Colonial Revival furnishings
The prevalence of Mission and Colonial Revival furnishings during 1910 constitutes a critical component of residential interior design, encapsulating a period of significant stylistic transition and the search for an authentic American aesthetic. This era marked a conscious departure from the ornate, often eclectic, sensibilities of the late Victorian period, driven by a desire for greater utility, honesty in materials, and a reconnection to either an idealized past or a handcrafted future. The emergence of these distinct furniture styles was not merely coincidental but a direct response to evolving cultural values and design philosophies. Mission furniture, an outgrowth of the Arts and Crafts movement, championed simplicity, robust construction, and natural materials, particularly oak, as a counterpoint to industrial mass production. Conversely, Colonial Revival represented a nostalgic turn, drawing inspiration from 18th and early 19th-century American design to evoke a sense of heritage, order, and refined elegance. The critical importance of these styles lies in their dominance within domestic settings; they defined the character of numerous homes and provided distinct, yet equally viable, alternatives to prevailing European influences. Understanding their characteristics and origins is therefore essential for comprehending the complete tapestry of home decor during this transformative year.
Further examination reveals the specific ways in which these furnishings shaped interior spaces. Mission pieces, characterized by their rectilinear forms, heavy proportions, and exposed joinery, imparted a sense of groundedness and unpretentious durability. Crafted predominantly from solid oak, often with dark or fumed finishes, items such as dining chairs, rockers, and bookcases underscored a philosophy of utility and visible craftsmanship. These furnishings were typically found in living rooms, dining areas, and studies, contributing to an overall aesthetic that prized natural materials, artisanal skill, and a rejection of superficial adornment. This directness resonated with homeowners seeking functional, enduring pieces that reflected integrity. In contrast, Colonial Revival furniture offered a more refined and historically conscious choice. Drawing from Federal, Georgian, and Queen Anne styles, these pieces often featured delicate turned legs, more curvilinear forms, and materials like mahogany or cherry. Examples include highboys, sideboards, and chairs with classical motifs, which brought an air of formal elegance and historical continuity into parlors, formal dining rooms, and bedrooms. While stylistically divergent, both Mission and Colonial Revival shared a common opposition to Victorian excess. Their coexistence in the marketplace allowed homeowners to express different facets of American identity: the rugged, honest simplicity of Mission, or the dignified, historical grace of Colonial Revival. The practical significance of distinguishing these styles lies in accurate period restoration, informed furniture selection for historical settings, and a deeper appreciation for the complex design currents of the early 20th century.
In conclusion, the symbiotic relationship between Mission and Colonial Revival furnishings and home decor in 1910 highlights a pivotal era where domestic aesthetics were fundamentally re-evaluated. These furniture styles were not just decorative elements but tangible manifestations of broader cultural shifts, representing a deliberate move away from past opulence towards either a principled simplicity or a revered historical narrative. The challenge for contemporary homeowners and designers seeking to emulate this period often involves harmoniously integrating these distinct styles or selecting the most appropriate one to convey a specific desired mood. Ultimately, the lasting legacy of these furnishings extends beyond their individual aesthetic contributions; they underscore the period’s persistent quest for a unique American design identity, setting important precedents for modernism and reinforcing the enduring appeal of thoughtful craftsmanship and authentic design in residential environments. Their prevalence offers profound insight into the material culture and aesthetic aspirations of the era.
11. Muted, earthy tones
The predominance of muted, earthy tones in residential interiors around 1910 represents a definitive characteristic of the era’s home decor, serving as a deliberate aesthetic departure from the often vibrant and saturated palettes of the late Victorian period. This shift was not merely a superficial trend but a reflection of deeper cultural and philosophical influences, primarily the Arts and Crafts movement’s reverence for nature, authenticity, and simplicity. The selection of these particular color schemes played a crucial role in establishing the desired atmosphere within homes, fostering a sense of calm, groundedness, and harmony with natural surroundings. Understanding this fundamental connection is essential for accurately interpreting the visual language of 1910 decor and appreciating its deliberate design principles.
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Connection to Naturalism and the Arts and Crafts Ethos
The widespread adoption of muted, earthy tones directly correlates with the prevailing Arts and Crafts ethos, which advocated for a strong connection to nature and a rejection of artificiality. Colors such as olive green, sage, deep forest green, various shades of brown (from warm ochre to rich mahogany), terracotta, brick red, mustard yellow, and subdued blues and grays were inspired by landscapes, natural elements, and organic pigments. This naturalistic palette aimed to integrate the interior space with the exterior environment, creating a harmonious and cohesive dwelling. The implication was a desire for honesty in materials and a visual language that felt organic and unforced, aligning with the movement’s focus on handcrafted quality and intrinsic beauty rather than applied ornamentation. Examples include walls painted in soft greens, wooden furniture with natural or fumed brown finishes, and textiles featuring subdued patterns in complementary earthy hues.
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Impact on Atmosphere and Ambience
The choice of a muted, earthy palette significantly contributed to the overall atmosphere and ambience of 1910 homes. These colors possess inherent qualities that promote a sense of tranquility, warmth, and comfort. Unlike the often stimulating or overly formal Victorian colors, the subdued tones created inviting and livable spaces, promoting relaxation and social interaction. For instance, living rooms might feature walls in a deep but soft green, complemented by rich brown wood trim and upholstery in a subtle red or gold, fostering an intimate and cozy environment. Dining rooms often utilized richer, darker versions of these tones to create a sense of dignified warmth. This deliberate color strategy aimed to make homes feel grounded and inviting, reflecting a growing emphasis on domestic comfort and less formal living, which became a hallmark of the period’s interior design.
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Enhancement of Natural Materials and Craftsmanship
Muted, earthy tones played a crucial supportive role in highlighting the natural materials and honest craftsmanship so valued during this period. The subdued background colors allowed the inherent beauty of solid wood furniture (often oak or mahogany), handcrafted textiles, and artisan ceramics to stand out without visual competition. For example, a wall painted in a soft cream or muted gray provided a neutral yet warm backdrop against which the rich grain of a Mission-style oak sideboard or the intricate patterns of a hand-loomed rug could be fully appreciated. This synergy between color and material reinforced the Arts and Crafts principle of truth to materials, where the integrity of each component was honored. The absence of jarring or overly bright colors ensured that the focus remained on form, texture, and the quality of construction, underscoring the era’s commitment to lasting beauty over fleeting trends.
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Aesthetic of Understated Elegance and Simplicity
The application of muted, earthy tones contributed significantly to an aesthetic of understated elegance and simplicity, which was a defining characteristic of 1910 decor. This palette avoided ostentation, instead favoring a sophisticated restraint. It helped to create spaces that felt refined and well-composed without relying on excessive decorative elements. The harmonious blending of these colors often created a seamless flow between rooms, contributing to an overall sense of order and coherence. This understated approach was also practical, as these colors were less prone to showing dirt and wear than very light or very dark saturated colors, aligning with the period’s move towards more easily maintainable homes. The resulting interiors conveyed a quiet dignity and timeless appeal, reflecting a mature and confident design sensibility that prioritized lasting quality over momentary fashion.
The pervasive use of muted, earthy tones in 1910 home decor was therefore a multifaceted design decision, intrinsically linked to the period’s philosophical underpinnings, atmospheric aspirations, and material preferences. These colors were instrumental in cultivating environments that were both aesthetically pleasing and deeply resonant with the values of naturalism, craftsmanship, and domestic comfort. Their enduring presence in period homes underscores a deliberate and thoughtful approach to color, effectively shaping the visual identity of a transformative era in interior design. This strategic application of color remains a vital element for those seeking to authentically recreate or draw inspiration from the distinctive aesthetic of this significant year.
12. Defined, practical spaces
The establishment of defined, practical spaces within residential architecture and interior design stands as a pivotal characteristic of home decor in 1910, marking a profound shift from preceding eras. This transformation was not a mere stylistic preference but a fundamental response to evolving societal structures, changing domestic expectations, and the influential tenets of movements like Arts and Crafts. Prior Victorian homes often featured more ambiguous or multi-purpose rooms, frequently overloaded with decorative items and designed for a stratified social order involving extensive domestic staff. However, the rise of a robust middle class, a greater emphasis on family life, and a reduction in live-in domestic help necessitated more efficient, purpose-driven environments. Consequently, the design imperative shifted towards creating distinct rooms, each with a clear function, thereby enhancing the overall practicality and livability of the home. This compartmentalization directly influenced furniture placement, lighting design, and the selection of decorative elements, all tailored to the specific utility of each area. The importance of defined, practical spaces as a component of 1910 home decor is paramount, as it fundamentally dictated spatial organization and user experience, moving beyond mere aesthetics to prioritize functional efficiency. Understanding this development provides crucial insight into the period’s architectural and interior design philosophy, informing accurate historical interpretation and sensitive restoration efforts.
Further analysis of this trend reveals its manifestation across various domestic zones. Kitchens, for instance, transitioned from simple utility areas to highly efficient, purpose-built workspaces. The introduction of dedicated pantry spaces, built-in cabinetry, and more ergonomic layouts reflected a focus on streamlined food preparation and household management. Living rooms, while still retaining a degree of formality, became increasingly designed for comfort and family gathering, moving away from purely ceremonial parlors. Furniture arrangements facilitated conversation and relaxation, rather than merely showcasing possessions. Dining rooms maintained their distinct role for meals but often featured durable, functional furniture such as Mission-style dining sets, emphasizing robust construction over delicate adornment. Bedrooms evolved into private sanctuaries, focused on rest and personal activities, with practical storage solutions and simpler, less cluttered arrangements. A key feature reinforcing the concept of defined, practical spaces was the widespread integration of built-in elementssuch as bookcases, window seats, buffets, and china cabinets. These permanent fixtures optimized space utilization, reduced clutter, and provided specific functions within their respective rooms, creating an integrated and highly efficient living environment. This practical approach contrasted sharply with the more fluid and often over-decorated spaces of earlier periods, laying groundwork for modern concepts of zoning and spatial efficiency.
In conclusion, the emphasis on defined, practical spaces in 1910 home decor was a transformative element, reflecting a profound societal shift towards greater functionality and efficiency in domestic life. This principle, driven by evolving lifestyles and design philosophies, led to homes that were logically organized, purpose-built, and easier to manage for the emerging middle-class family. A significant challenge in this transition involved balancing the distinct functions of rooms with a cohesive overall aesthetic, which designers of the era often achieved through consistent use of materials and a harmonious color palette. The enduring significance of this development is undeniable; it represents a critical precursor to modern architectural planning and interior design, where efficiency, logical flow, and user-centric zoning are fundamental considerations. This strategic approach to spatial organization thus forms a cornerstone of 1910 home decor, illustrating a period where functionality and thoughtful design became inseparable from the very fabric of residential living.
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