Mand van Engels hardgebakken aardewerk, Boch c. 1775 - 1810

This basket, made of hard-baked earthenware by Boch, presents us with a latticework motif. This is a potent symbol, a design that echoes through time and across cultures. Think of the weaving of baskets in ancient Egypt, where reeds were interlaced to create vessels for daily life. This act of weaving then transcends its practical purpose, evolving into symbolic representations of connection, community, and the very fabric of society. Our latticework, with its repeating pattern of interwoven lines, speaks of order and unity but, paradoxically, creates spaces for light and air to pass through, suggesting openness and possibility. It is this duality, this tension between structure and freedom, that captivates us on a subconscious level, resonating with our own internal struggles. The latticework persists, evolving into the decorative arts of different cultures, each time carrying echoes of its past, a constant reminder of the enduring power of visual symbols to convey complex ideas and emotions.