Platter c. 1936

Helmut Hiatt crafted this platter, featuring a stark building, likely a hospital or asylum, surrounded by nature. Note the roses that frame the scene. These roses are not merely decorative; they evoke a complex array of associations that transcend time. The rose, often a symbol of love and beauty, here takes on a poignant duality. It reminds me of similar floral motifs found in funerary art across cultures, where flowers soften the harsh reality of death. Consider how this symbol has been passed down through history, shifting in meaning, yet retaining its emotional resonance. Perhaps, subconsciously, the artist used roses to evoke a sense of hope or healing amidst the daunting architecture. It serves as a powerful reminder that even within confinement, life and beauty persist.