Kannen van steengoed, plaat XI 1827 - 1829

This is an etching by Charles Onghena, depicting stoneware jugs. While these don’t have the tactile presence of the original objects, they offer a glimpse into 19th-century material culture. Onghena’s choice to depict stoneware is significant. Stoneware jugs, made from dense clay fired at high temperatures, were common vessels for storing and serving liquids. Their robust nature made them ideal for everyday use, reflecting a practical approach to design. The illustrated surface decorations, achieved through carving and molding, add layers of complexity to these utilitarian objects. Consider the labor involved in producing these jugs. From sourcing the clay to shaping, firing, and decorating each piece, skilled artisans would have poured hours into their creation. This attention to detail elevates the jugs beyond mere functional items, transforming them into objects of cultural and aesthetic value. Ultimately, Onghena’s depiction challenges traditional hierarchies between fine art and craft. By immortalizing these humble stoneware jugs, he prompts us to appreciate the artistry embedded in everyday objects, and the social context of their making.