Cup and saucer c. 1809 - 1814

This cup and saucer were made by Koninklijke Porseleinfabriek Dommer & Co. Reflecting the aesthetics of its time, this piece embodies the period's fascination with classical antiquity, seen in the symmetrical patterns and motifs drawn from ancient Greek and Roman art. But this wasn't just about aesthetics; it was about aligning with the perceived virtues of those societies – order, reason, and harmony, values that the elite of the time wished to reflect in their own lives. However, it's important to remember that while these objects speak of elegance and refinement, they also whisper unspoken truths about labor and global trade. Porcelain production relied on resources extracted from various parts of the world, often through exploitative colonial practices. As you consider this cup, think about whose hands and what histories contributed to its creation, and whose stories are often left untold in our museums.