Platter c. 1760

This earthenware platter resides at the Art Institute of Chicago, crafted by Rouen Potteries. Upon viewing, one is immediately struck by the asymmetry of the composition, which defies traditional notions of balance. The painterly application of color, particularly the juxtaposition of blues, yellows and reds, creates a vibrant yet unsettling visual experience. The platter's surface is not merely a backdrop but an active participant in the overall design. Here, the interplay between representation and abstraction challenges our understanding of depth and perspective. There's a flattening of space, pushing the flora and fauna toward the surface. The platter challenges fixed notions of beauty, inviting a dialogue between form and function, representation and abstraction. It disrupts our conventional understanding of domestic objects.