Urn 1886 - 1895

This striking urn was produced by the Hecla Works sometime between 1885 and 1912. The urn is made of cast iron, a material commonly associated with industrial production during this period. During this time, the Victorian era was in full swing, bringing with it a fascination with ornamentation and classical forms. This urn embodies that aesthetic, blending mass production with a revival of historical styles. The classical urn shape and decorative motifs evoke a sense of timelessness. Yet the industrial material reminds us of the rapid changes in society during that era. The stark contrast between the white urn and the dark iron stand creates a visually arresting piece. The contrast may also mirror the social divisions of the time, where industrial wealth existed alongside widespread poverty. While appearing ornamental, the urn's construction from cast iron speaks to the labor and industrial processes that shaped the era. It offers a glimpse into the complex interplay between art, industry, and society at the turn of the century.