Plate 1808

This plate was made in 1808 by an anonymous artist from earthenware and slip. The design features a stylized rooster amidst decorative motifs. These earthenware plates were a common domestic item in 19th-century America. They speak to a burgeoning sense of national identity through their folk art aesthetic, reflecting the values and tastes of everyday people. Roosters often symbolized vigilance, courage, and sometimes, even defiance. For the common person, these plates weren't just tableware; they were expressions of cultural identity. To understand this plate fully, one would look at inventories of household goods, advertisements for earthenware, and even folk tales from the period. This plate, while simple, offers us a glimpse into the everyday life and the shared cultural values of early 19th-century America. The history is in the details!