Pilgrim Bottle Vase 1880 - 1890

This Minton Pilgrim Bottle Vase features a winged putto with a broom, standing triumphant over a vanquished dragon. Here, the cherubic figure is not merely decorative; it embodies the timeless motif of good overcoming evil. The putto, derived from classical antiquity, often represented divine love and protection. Yet, its presence here, broom in hand, adds a layer of complexity. In medieval art, dragons symbolized chaos and sin. Our putto's act of sweeping away this beast connects to the recurrent theme of purification seen in various mythologies, such as Saint George slaying the dragon. This image taps into a collective yearning for order and safety, evoking a sense of hope. The recurring narrative of triumph over adversity resonates across time and cultures, illustrating our enduring psychological need for narratives of victory and redemption.