Ewer 1775 - 1780

This porcelain ewer, made by La Courtille, showcases the enduring fascination with classical motifs during its time. The dominant visual symbol is the cherubic figure, a direct descendant of Cupid, the Roman god of love, armed with a shield. Consider how such figures reappear throughout art history, not just in classical depictions of divine love but also in Renaissance paintings where cherubs symbolize spiritual love. The shield carried by the cherub is a particularly intriguing element. Originally, it represented defense and war. But here, softened by the playful nature of the cherub, it takes on a more metaphorical meaning, perhaps suggesting the defenses one erects around the heart. The emotional resonance of such images lies in their ability to tap into our collective memory, reminding us of the eternal human experience of love, vulnerability, and protection. The classical past is forever resurfacing, evolving, and taking on new meanings in different historical contexts.