Harrar Platter c. 20th century

Curator: Take a look at "Harrar Platter", a woven textile platter dating back to the 20th century and currently residing here at the Minneapolis Institute of Art. Editor: The radial design is immediately captivating, drawing the eye inward. There's a sense of order, but the irregularities in color create a gentle visual hum. Curator: It's fascinating to consider the labor that went into creating this seemingly simple object. Think about the gathering and preparation of the fibers, the time invested in the weaving process, and the skills passed down through generations. Editor: Indeed. The concentric rings create a captivating optical effect. Do you notice the subtle variations in hue? The artist seems to have had a good sense of color theory while executing a complicated form in a three dimensional pattern. Curator: The materials speak volumes about the environment and the resources available to the artisan, in addition to indigenous creative practices that so often rely on repetition of ancestral patterns, or motifs representing landscapes of great importance. This piece prompts consideration about use value versus art value, which becomes relevant with the presentation here in a museum. Editor: Absolutely. I read those radiating spokes in the center, interspersed with black geometric dashes, as quite potent in a design sense, echoing the visual language we might find on ancient astronomical charts. The darker tones ground the composition as well. Curator: I wonder about the specific community that produced this platter and how such items functioned within their society. Were they used for ceremonial purposes, trade, or everyday domestic life? Editor: I agree, this platter transcends mere utility; it is quite visually balanced, which lends itself to decorative uses regardless of original applications. A remarkable balance between function and artistic expression. Curator: Exactly, thinking about the history and purpose this platter might’ve had adds another rich layer of understanding beyond its formal appeal. Thanks for highlighting that today. Editor: It's a wonderful chance to view form through various layers. The Harrar Platter embodies functional design with inherent artistry.