Vase 1882 - 1886

Editor: So this vase, from Haviland & Co., was made between 1882 and 1886. It's ceramic, with floral and geometric decorations, a piece of decorative art. What strikes me is the almost industrial feel despite the floral ornamentation, a sense of mass production trying to masquerade as something unique. What do you see in it? Curator: I see a direct engagement with the means of production. Let's consider Haviland's history; they were known for pioneering mass production techniques in porcelain. This vase embodies that tension: attempting hand-crafted aesthetics, seen in the floral designs, but executed through industrial processes. The floral design and geometric pattern seem almost like added value to a cheaply produced form. Who was the consumer? What aspirations did they have? Editor: That's a great point. So, instead of focusing on the aesthetic beauty, you're drawn to the societal implications of its production? Curator: Precisely! We should question traditional boundaries between art and craft. The division of labor, the accessibility of materials, the intended market – these all are critical elements to understand this piece. Consider the decorative elements themselves; they become signifiers of class, status, perhaps even an aspiration to a lifestyle beyond the reach of the average consumer. Editor: So, it’s less about the vase as a beautiful object and more about what it says about production and consumption in the late 19th century? Curator: Exactly. And how those forces shaped aesthetic choices. We should ask how this object reflects and reinforces existing power structures within that society, while considering labor conditions during that period. Editor: That perspective makes me see it in a completely different light, not just a decorative item, but a record of production and consumption, class aspiration and power structure from that time. Curator: And remember, this critical lens expands to other artworks. The beauty is there, of course, but understanding the "how" and "why" allows us to engage more deeply with any artwork.