Arbor group 1750 - 1760

This small ceramic relief sculpture, known as an "Arbor Group," was made in Staffordshire, England during the mid-18th century. The "Whieldon type" refers to the style of pottery, named after the famous Staffordshire potter Thomas Whieldon. The piece depicts a romantic scene, likely inspired by popular literature of the period, featuring a couple under an arbor surrounded by leafy foliage. Whieldon wares are characterized by their colorful glazes and naturalistic forms, like this sculpture. The piece is currently part of the Metropolitan Museum of Art's collection.