Plant pot (jardinière) c. 1778 - 1782

Editor: This is a ceramic plant pot, or jardinière, crafted around 1778 to 1782 in Loosdrecht. I’m struck by its delicate ornamentation – these floral arrangements feel very intentional. What can you tell me about this Rococo piece? Curator: It’s more than just decoration, it's an indication of class and gender. Rococo, originating in France, represents a departure from previous styles toward lightness, elegance, and natural forms. Aristocratic women of the era had increasing power and their patronage significantly impacted artistic output and promoted the aesthetics associated with boudoir culture. Editor: Boudoir culture? How does that connect with a plant pot? Curator: Objects like this jardinière reflect domesticity as a stage, reflecting women’s cultivation of the home, but also the performance of it for guests and societal expectation. How does understanding that change your perception? Editor: It makes me think about the lives of women in that era. It's interesting to view an object like this as not just aesthetically pleasing, but as a silent communicator of social identity. The Rococo style isn't merely pretty, it carries the weight of those social expectations. It is also about wealth disparity. Curator: Precisely. Think about the material itself - the earthenware would have been imported or meticulously crafted. So the piece reflects on complex societal issues such as the role of the domestic, of wealth, and of gendered expectations in shaping artistic production. Considering these perspectives really enriches the narrative surrounding this seemingly simple object. Editor: Absolutely! I never would have considered all that simply by looking at a plant pot. Thank you! Curator: My pleasure, there are so many connections within and without any objet d’art if we dare to search!