Vase c. 1770

This vase was crafted by the Wedgwood Manufactory, showcasing swirling patterns that mimic the earth's own chaotic beauty. Adorning its sides are rams' heads, symbols of virility, leadership, and determination, motifs deeply rooted in classical antiquity. Consider the ram—an emblem of Aries in the zodiac, a creature sacrificed to the gods, and a symbol of power throughout ancient Greece and Rome. These heads, meticulously sculpted, transport us back to a time when such symbols were intrinsically linked to societal values. The incorporation of rams' heads here, however, marks a departure. While they retain their classical connotations, their presence on a decorative vase speaks to a renewed appreciation for antiquity during the Neoclassical movement. This evolution illustrates the enduring power of symbols, their ability to adapt, resurface, and resonate across centuries.