Watch Holder c. 1830

This ceramic watch holder was crafted by the Staffordshire Potteries, its surface adorned with a number of symbolic images. Note the angel’s face that crowns the very top of the piece. This is a motif with deep roots, appearing in classical art to signify divine presence. But see how the artisans transformed it, making it less ethereal and more human, reflective of a domestic object. Below, the presence of a dog is not accidental. Dogs have been used in art as symbols of fidelity, companionship, and domesticity since antiquity, representing loyalty and vigilance. Here, the dog's inclusion deepens the sense of familial comfort, subtly suggesting the safety and warmth found within the home. This image resonates with our collective memory, stirring feelings of security. These motifs are not static, their meanings evolve, reflecting a non-linear cycle through history, always changing and adapting.