Sauce Dish 1870 - 1890

Editor: This is the "Sauce Dish", created by Challinor, Taylor and Company between 1870 and 1890. It’s currently housed at the Metropolitan Museum of Art. It seems to be made out of ceramic, though its translucent quality almost suggests glass. It looks rather elegant and delicate. What compositional elements strike you? Curator: The interplay between the solid form and the implied transparency is indeed captivating. Note the meticulous geometric facets along the bowl's exterior, contrasted with the fluid marbling effect within the stem. It creates a visual tension, doesn’t it? The scalloped edge also softens the otherwise rigid geometry, adding a delicate, rhythmic element. What about the color? Editor: The color seems significant. The purple hue varies across the surface, creating a sense of depth and movement. The color is what gives me the initial read on how it looks translucent. Curator: Precisely. Observe how the variation in the purple pigment emphasizes the three-dimensional form and reflects light. The gradation also accentuates the curvature of the bowl. If you observe more, how would you describe the texture conveyed through the photography of this ceramic piece? Editor: I am immediately drawn to the vertical striations of each line. And the color really makes it look as if the form itself creates the patterns, like there is nothing superficially 'painted' on. Curator: An astute observation. There appears to be an almost intentional discord between the static, geometric cuts, the implied movement, and the delicate hue, creating a richer aesthetic experience. Editor: I see what you mean. So it's about appreciating how those design choices interact on the whole and that these components can inform our view on decorative art's purpose in society? Curator: In a word, yes. Each individual property serves a vital role and directly plays with each other, thus resulting in the beauty of the collective whole.