Ewer with female figure 1845 - 1855

This Ewer with female figure was made by Joseph Landais in the 19th century using earthenware with colorful glazes. Earthenware is a humble material, common enough, but here it’s elevated through elaborate labor. Consider the way the clay has been meticulously molded and ornamented. Sprigs of flowers, grotesque masks, and the nude figure on the lid – each of these was formed and applied by hand. This is an object made in the spirit of mass production; such showy pieces were popular among the rising middle class. Yet, it's also a testament to individual skill. The appeal of this ewer comes from the tension between its industrial and artisanal qualities. It is a celebration of both the machine and the hand, and is a reminder that even the most decorative objects are rooted in social and economic realities. Appreciating this connection allows us to move beyond traditional distinctions of art and craft.