The Half and The Whole (pair of vases) 1895 - 1899

These porcelain vases, created by Minton, speak to the 19th century fascination with neoclassical forms and imagery. Their careful craftsmanship reflects the industrial advancements and artistic aspirations of Victorian England. Notice the contrasting matte black ground against which delicate white figures are set. These figures, reminiscent of ancient Greek sculptures, evoke a sense of timeless beauty and classical ideals. Minton, as a company, was deeply embedded in the social fabric of the time. Its location in Stoke-on-Trent, the heart of the English pottery industry, put it at the crossroads of technological innovation, labor dynamics, and market demand. The company's wares, displayed in international exhibitions, became symbols of British industrial prowess and aesthetic refinement. To understand these vases fully, we can consult trade journals, exhibition catalogs, and design manuals. Each of them offers a glimpse into the complex social and economic forces that shaped their creation. These vases show the power of art to reflect and shape the values of its time.