Pitcher 1868 - 1886

This pitcher, crafted by the Greenwood Pottery Company, presents a fascinating tableau of symbols. The American flag is immediately striking, a bold emblem of national identity and unity. This is framed by a garland of roses. The rose, a timeless motif, has journeyed through art history, from ancient Roman gardens to Renaissance paintings. The symbolic weight it carries shifts with each era, from love and beauty to secrecy. The gesture of framing the flag with a wreath connects to ancient traditions of honoring individuals. This echoes through time and appears in later military contexts. Here, the roses may reflect a yearning for national ideals and the emotional weight of patriotism. As we navigate these symbols, remember that history is not linear, and that these motifs resurface in altered forms, echoing humanity's evolving narrative.