Celery Dish 1849 - 1858

This glazed earthenware "Celery Dish" was crafted by Lyman, Fenton & Co. in the late 19th century. Its undulating rim and vertical fluting give it the appearance of a stylized flower, a motif that has blossomed across cultures and eras. Consider how similar floral patterns appear in ancient Minoan pottery, where lilies and crocuses evoke the vitality of nature and the divine. The Celery Dish echoes this life-affirming sentiment, its form subconsciously resonating with our primal connection to the earth and its bounty. The dark, glossy glaze accentuates the piece's organic form, adding a layer of sophistication. This interplay between natural form and refined craftsmanship embodies a deeper tension, reflecting our constant negotiation between the wild and the cultivated. The flower, a symbol of fleeting beauty and renewal, continues to resurface, evolve, and take on new meanings in different historical contexts.