Dish 1720 - 1737

This exquisite dish was crafted by the Meissen Manufactory. Notice the bird motif amidst the delicate floral patterns. In European iconography, birds often symbolize the soul or a messenger between realms. Now, consider how such avian symbolism appears across cultures; from the Egyptian depiction of the soul as a bird, to the dove representing peace in Christian art. Here, on this dish, the bird is combined with ornate vegetal elements, reminiscent of the "horror vacui," the fear of empty space seen in ancient art where every surface is filled with detail. This combination could suggest a subconscious desire to fill a void, evoking a sense of abundance and protection against emptiness. A symbol that resurfaces and evolves, reflecting our perennial quest for meaning and connection.