Platter 1885

This Platter was made by the Union Porcelain Works between 1863 and 1922. It is made of white porcelain, a refined clay fired at high temperatures to create a smooth, translucent surface. The platter's form is classic, and the techniques used to create it are rooted in ceramics. The process begins with shaping the clay, probably using a mold for uniformity, then firing it to achieve that pristine white finish. What sets this piece apart is the delicate decoration, where symmetrical arrangements of teal and gold leaves are used to create a border. The uniformity suggests industrial production methods, where skilled workers reproduced designs efficiently. This kind of mass production made luxury items more accessible, reflecting the changing landscape of consumption and class in America at the time. Thinking about the making of this platter reminds us that even everyday objects carry cultural and social meaning. It challenges the hierarchy separating craft and fine art, highlighting the skill and historical context embedded in every piece, no matter how functional.