Sensuous impulse is the desire to break away from the design norm, and embrace more organic, fluid forms, as opposed to the strict rigidity of desgin.
This "sensuous impulse" had taken its place as the dominant style in the period from c. 1730 to 1765, and this lead to the creation of the term "rococo". Rococo is thought of as a combination of the French rocaille, meaning stone, and coquilles, meaning shell, in reference to its emphasis on natural forms, and using those objects as main motifs.
Rococo also made a major comeback in the Art Nouveau period (1880 - 1910) and has maintained a moderate level of interest since.
it has manifested itself in a variety of ways, from mere inspiration to actual applications in large scale designs. It inspired the development and increase in number of female nudes, as the female body was the embodiement of the sensual, natural, curves and form.
Rococo is also present in European architecture, as it originated in France, and expanded outwards due to its immense popularity. Even today, many artist and designers are embracing the deviation from the norm, and experimenting with more fluid forms, using such ideas as the continuous curve. One such example of a fairly recent piece of design is Jennifer McCurdy's "Wave Vessel 2" (shown above)
This piece of art is made of porcelain, and its main focus is on form, it has no practical use whatsoever, but is just so beautiful that it doesn't need a purpose. One might say its purpose is to look good.
Personally I see nothing wrong with these sensuous impulses in design, the only problem I have with them is when they start to detract from the usability of the product (this doesn't apply to the design I posted above, as I see that as purely a work of art inspired by the rococo period, rather than a useful design). However, in these modern times, many designers are figuring out how to blend both form and function, without compromising either for the sake of the other.
If you like the wave vessel, make sure to check out Jennifer's website http://www.jennifermccurdy.com/
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