Ruby Case Glass Rose Jar c. 1936

Edward White rendered this "Ruby Case Glass Rose Jar" with an unknown medium and date, inviting us to reflect on the cultural and personal significance of domestic objects. During White's life, industrialization transformed decorative arts. Objects like this jar became accessible to a broader segment of society, and were increasingly associated with middle-class domesticity and femininity. The rose jar, designed to contain potpourri, evokes notions of beauty, refinement, and the careful cultivation of the home environment. Its intricate design and ruby hue might have been aspirational, symbolizing a certain level of social standing and taste. The image prompts us to consider the gendered division of space and labor, where women were often tasked with maintaining the aesthetic and sensory qualities of the home. As you observe the geometric precision and the delicate color, consider the emotions and social values that everyday objects can embody.