Herring Dish c. 1740

This herring dish was crafted by Dirk van den Bergh. The piece immediately strikes us with its striking blue glaze and the intricate patterning that seeks to capture the essence of marine life. Van den Bergh masterfully employs a limited color palette, relying on the nuances of blue to define the herring's form. Notice how the shades deepen along the spine and fade toward the belly, creating a sense of volume. The decorative patterning around the edges, reminiscent of scales, adds texture and visual interest. The overall composition is a study in contrasts: the smooth, glossy surface of the glaze against the rough texture of the patterned scales. Consider the cultural context: Dishes like these weren’t just functional items. They reflected an increasing interest in the natural world, as well as the Dutch Republic's maritime strength. This fish dish transforms a mundane object into a symbol of cultural pride and economic prowess.