Cup plate 1848 - 1849

This cup plate was made by Sampson, Lindley & Co. between 1848 and 1849. Composed of clear glass, its circular form and the repetitive, scalloped edge are immediately striking. The transparency of the glass offers a play of light and shadow, subtly distorting the surface it rests upon. The plate's structure is divided into concentric bands of text, each acting as a signifier within a commercial semiotic system. The words "Importers of China Class & Queens Ware" along with the company name and location are not merely descriptive; they function as a brand identity. The circular arrangement invites a rotational reading, almost like a record spinning with encoded messages. This design reflects broader philosophical concerns about the commodification of everyday objects, typical of its time. The clear glass aesthetic, devoid of ornamentation, is a statement in itself. It challenges conventional notions of value and taste, suggesting a shift towards simplicity. The plate's formal qualities – its circular shape, transparent material, and textual arrangement – transform it from a functional item into a cultural artifact, one that continues to invite interpretation.