Vase 1850

This impressive vase was crafted anonymously, using glass and enamel. Without knowing its date or origin, we can still explore its social context by looking at the image closely. The gold decoration and overall form suggests the revival of luxury arts that took place in Europe in the late 19th century, when wealthy patrons sought to emulate the grandeur of previous eras. Glassmaking, in particular, benefited from new technologies that allowed for elaborate decoration, and the resulting objects were displayed as signs of wealth and taste. The presence of this vase in the Minneapolis Institute of Art speaks to the increasing importance of museums in shaping public appreciation for the decorative arts, and the role of institutions like this one in defining 'good taste' in the modern era. The social history of art encourages us to dig deeper. Auction records, design pattern books, and museum archives might reveal more about the specific context for this beautiful object.