Basket c. 1760 - 1770

This faience basket was made by Johan van Kerkhoff in the eighteenth century. The flowers painted in blue on the white surface symbolize love, affection and beauty. This motif appears repeatedly throughout history, adorning objects of both secular and sacred use. Consider, for instance, the lotus in ancient Egypt, a symbol of rebirth and creation, gracing the columns of temples and the prows of boats. Or think of the fleur-de-lis, a stylized lily, adopted by French royalty as a symbol of purity and divine right. The recurring presence of floral motifs in art reflects our innate connection to the natural world, stirring deep-seated emotions within us. The delicate petals and vibrant colors evoke feelings of joy, peace, and nostalgia. Through this continuous cycle of cultural memory, these symbols resurface, adapt, and take on new meanings, engaging viewers on a profound, often subconscious level.