Pitcher 1850 - 1858

This pitcher was produced by the United States Pottery Company, established in 1852. The United States Pottery Company existed during a period of significant industrial expansion and social change in the United States. Mass production and technological advancements influenced the design and accessibility of ceramics. The molded white ware pitcher presents corn as its central motif. Corn, an indigenous crop, carries complex associations. Its appropriation as a decorative element reflects the complicated relationship between American industry, agriculture, and the history of land use and ownership. It could be read as a commentary on the cultural narratives surrounding agriculture and industrialization, revealing the intertwined histories of progress, identity, and land. This object invites us to consider the narratives embedded in everyday items. It serves as a reminder of the intricate connections between material culture, identity, and the broader historical context that shapes our understanding of the world.