Versierd aardewerk, theepot, karaf en bord 1850 - 1900

Méderic Mieusement made this photograph of decorated earthenware, a teapot, carafe, and plate, sometime between 1870 and 1905. It connects to the wider social and cultural context through its careful depiction of objects that would have been common in affluent households. Mieusement's image creates meaning through its visual codes. The objects' delicate patterns and refined shapes suggest a culture of leisure and taste, reflecting the values of the French upper classes during the late 19th century. Geographically, its origin in France, specifically the Musée de Cluny in Paris, connects it to a historical center of artistic and cultural production. The decorative arts experienced a resurgence of interest during this time, influencing both artistic production and institutional collecting. The photograph offers a window into the social structures of its time, subtly critiquing the emphasis on material wealth and status. The role of the historian is vital here, using archives, museum collections, and period publications to better understand the complex interplay between art, society, and institutional context.