Blaker, bladvormig met in roodbruin beschilderde rocailles in reliëf en veelkleurige korenbloemen c. 1774 - 1778

Curator: Here we have a leaf-shaped candleholder crafted around 1774-1778, originating from the Loosdrecht manufactory. Editor: It's so whimsical! I'm immediately struck by its playful asymmetry and delicate ornamentation. It’s like a tiny stage for candlelight, adorned with rocaille flourishes and a scattering of painted cornflowers. Curator: Indeed. This blaker, as it's called, is made from earthenware with molded decoration and features hand-painted details in brown and polychrome, exhibiting a true sense of the rococo aesthetic. Editor: The molding suggests a move toward mass production, even then. The fact it's earthenware rather than porcelain points to cost effectiveness too, perhaps democratizing luxury for a burgeoning middle class. Who was actually making this? The level of intricacy suggests specialized labour. Curator: Well, considering it's from the Loosdrecht manufactory, that opens up fascinating questions about artisanal roles and factory production in the late 18th century Netherlands, absolutely! And how it intersected with class. Beyond that, though, doesn’t it strike you how intimate this object feels? A single candle… a quiet room… Editor: It definitely evokes a sense of intimacy! All those cornflowers... Were they locally sourced and symbolic of something or merely decorative? Were they included to entice prospective buyers? I would be curious to know whether it was designed and consumed locally, or involved trade routes. Curator: Trade routes, of course, were essential. But picturing its use—the candlelight dancing across the carefully painted cornflowers, reflecting on the curves… it evokes a beautiful sense of serenity. This is Rococo at its most charming. Editor: Charming, yes. And materially grounded, linking us to processes of production and consumption and providing fascinating glimpses into labor practices of its time. Curator: A perfect dance of fancy and practicality, if you ask me! Editor: Right, I appreciate you drawing attention to how closely it brings art and life, concept and creation.