Saucer with insects, flower sprays and grapevines c. 1797 - 1798

Here is a saucer decorated with insects, flower sprays and grapevines. It was decorated by Rue Thiroux Parijs. On the surface of the saucer, various insects and naturalistic details are carefully painted. The golden rim gives it a touch of elegance and frames the whole decoration. Such imagery was often used to reflect the wonders of the natural world but can also be seen as a display of scientific curiosity and exploration. The insects and plants might symbolize the different stages of life, inviting reflection on themes of transformation and mortality. It's a common representation that transcends time and continues to resonate with our understanding of life's fleeting nature. While seemingly decorative, this saucer offers a glimpse into the complex interplay between nature, science, and society, reflecting the cultural values and knowledge of the time in which it was created.