Schotel, deel van een servies, beschilderd met vogel en violen 1913

Editor: We're looking at a ceramic dish from 1913 by the N.V. Haagsche Plateelfabriek Rozenburg, titled "Schotel, deel van een servies, beschilderd met vogel en violen" - or, Dish, part of a service, painted with bird and violets. It’s delicately painted and quite charming. What strikes you about it? Curator: Its charm, as you say, isn't accidental. This dish exemplifies the commercialization of art in the early 20th century. Rozenburg was a factory producing luxury ceramics marketed to the rising middle class. It allowed them access to art in a domestic setting. Note the Impressionistic painting style, deemed appropriate for "high" art. How does the combination of handcraft, artistic aspiration, and industrial production inform our view? Editor: That's fascinating! I hadn’t considered it in terms of class and access. So, the style is also a marketing strategy? Curator: Precisely! Impressionism signaled 'artistic value,' elevating the piece beyond mere functional object. And what's the significance of the bird and violets as decorative elements in the imagery? Are these symbols common during the time that communicate anything about nature, Dutch culture, or femininity perhaps? Editor: Good point. I do see that this speaks to themes of beauty and nature, domestic tranquility perhaps... something pleasing for the home. This really gives me a fresh way of thinking about decorative arts. Thank you. Curator: My pleasure. Reflecting on this work shows how even seemingly simple objects carry complex historical and social meanings. It also demonstrates the fascinating intersection of art, commerce, and social status.