Schaal, beschilderd met verstrooide rozen c. 1778 - 1782

This is a delicately painted bowl with scattered roses, created by the Loosdrecht manufactory. During the late 18th century, porcelain was more than just tableware; it was a canvas that reflected the social and cultural values of the elite. Loosdrecht, one of the first Dutch porcelain factories, sought to capture the refined tastes of the Dutch aristocracy. The scattered rose motif on this bowl speaks volumes. Roses, often associated with femininity, love, and beauty, were a popular theme in art and decoration, particularly among the upper classes. Each rose, carefully painted, embodies a delicate balance between nature and artifice, reflecting a cultivated vision of beauty. Consider, for a moment, the hands that crafted and painted this bowl. The factory workers, many of whom were women, poured their skill and labor into creating objects of desire for a privileged clientele. This bowl becomes a lens through which we can consider the complex relationships between class, labor, and the pursuit of beauty. It’s a reminder that even the most beautiful objects often carry stories of those whose voices have been historically marginalized.