Plate 1745 - 1755

This porcelain plate, an object of desire and status, was crafted by the Bow Porcelain Factory between 1744 and 1775. During this period, the allure of the exotic East fueled a fascination with Chinese porcelain, and factories like Bow emerged to meet this demand. However, the appropriation of Chinese motifs also speaks to the complex dynamics of trade, colonialism, and cultural exchange that shaped the 18th century. While the plate emulates Eastern aesthetics, its creation and consumption were firmly rooted in European society. Consider how the delicate floral designs might have been perceived by different audiences – perhaps as emblems of refinement and taste, or as symbols of global interconnectedness and colonial power. Reflect on the human stories behind this object: the skilled artisans who shaped and decorated the plate, the merchants who transported it across continents, and the individuals who used it to adorn their tables and impress their guests.