Tureen with cover 1745 - 1765

This is a faience tureen with a cover, crafted by Paul Hannong in Strasbourg. Its form immediately strikes you: a functional object elevated to a baroque spectacle. The tureen is designed with an elegant, asymmetrical balance. Notice the regal eagle-head handles, their dark plumage contrasting with the white body and bold blue rim. The rose finial and scattered floral motifs add delicate touches of naturalism, yet are carefully stylized. Consider how these elements engage in a dialogue between nature and artifice. Hannong is not merely replicating natural forms; he’s constructing a theatre of visual delight. The strategic placement of color – the deep blues, verdant greens, and subtle pinks – creates a visual rhythm. As you circle the object, observe how each angle presents a slightly different composition. The play of light on the glazed surface enhances the relief of the floral designs, creating a dynamic interplay of shadow and highlight. This tureen transcends its utilitarian purpose, becoming a testament to the transformative power of art.