Six Designs for Decorated Plates 1845 - 1855

Alfred Henry Forrester created these six plate designs on paper with watercolor and graphite, and while the sheet is undated, it likely comes from the mid-19th century in England. During this period, design reform movements sought to improve the quality and aesthetics of manufactured goods, influencing institutions like the Government School of Design. Forrester’s designs reflect this moment, showcasing intricate patterns and motifs intended for mass-produced ceramics. The blue and brown hues, along with the geometric and floral patterns, draw upon historical styles, referencing both medieval and Renaissance precedents. The presence of heraldic symbols suggests an appeal to historical authenticity, a common theme in Victorian design. To understand Forrester's designs better, we can delve into the archives of design schools and manufacturers. By exploring these resources, we gain insight into the social and institutional forces that shaped artistic production during this period.