Platter c. 1936

This platter was created by Helmut Hiatt. The monochromatic image shows a harbor scene, surrounded by a floral border. These decorative platters became popular in the mid-19th century, reflecting the rise of industrial manufacturing and a growing middle class with disposable income. Transfer printing techniques allowed manufacturers to reproduce images quickly and cheaply, making decorative ceramics accessible to a wider audience. The scene depicted may refer to a specific location, perhaps a coastal town with maritime trade. The floral border adds a touch of refinement, fitting with the values of domesticity and good taste associated with the rising middle class. Historical records, such as trade catalogs and pattern books, can reveal the social and economic context in which these objects were made and consumed.