Pa. German Trivet c. 1939

Filippo Porreca created this representation of a Pa. German Trivet. Porreca was an Italian artist who documented a range of decorative arts objects made by Americans. The trivet is an object that speaks to the domestic sphere, labor, and the everyday lives of women in Pennsylvania German communities. These communities, often seeking religious freedom, brought unique cultural traditions to America, blending them with new world influences. The design—the series of circles—can be read through the lens of cultural identity. The Pennsylvania German communities often used specific motifs, like the one you see here, which symbolized good luck. As such the trivet embodies the fusion of function and cultural expression, reflecting the community's values and history. Consider the emotional connection to home and heritage that such an object might evoke. It’s a quiet testament to cultural exchange, adaptation, and the enduring human need to create beauty in the face of hardship.