Lidded ewer 1885

This Lidded Ewer was created by Christopher Dresser, date unknown, and now resides in the Metropolitan Museum of Art. It is a striking example of the designer's innovative approach to form and material. The ewer is made of silver, and it features a conical body, a slender neck, and an angular handle. The polished surface creates dramatic plays of light and shadow that accentuate its geometric shapes. Dresser's design ethos, blending functionalism with aesthetic purity, is evident in the object’s clean lines and minimalist ornamentation. The ewer can be seen as a response to prevailing Victorian tastes and a reflection of the emerging modern design principles that stripped away excessive decoration in favor of streamlined forms. The structure conveys both utility and a sense of refined elegance. Note how the design reflects a broader cultural shift towards embracing industrial materials and machine production while retaining artistic expression.