Dish 19th century

This 19th-century "Dish" by Bernard Palissy is a beautiful example of Renaissance-era maiolica, a type of tin-glazed earthenware. The dish features a complex design of interlaced foliage and flowers, framing a central motif of six stylized human faces. The intricate relief work, with its delicate details and vibrant colors, showcases the artist's exceptional skill in this medium. Palissy, known for his scientific curiosity and innovative techniques, created this dish using a technique called "rustic ware," where natural materials like shells and leaves were incorporated into the glaze. This iconic piece, now in the collection of the Metropolitan Museum of Art, exemplifies Palissy's unique approach to ceramics and his enduring legacy in the world of art.