Pa. German Octagonal Dish c. 1936

Frances Lichten's watercolor "Pa. German Octagonal Dish" is a meticulous study of a 1700s Pennsylvania German octagonal dish. Lichten, known for her meticulous depictions of Pennsylvania Dutch folk art, captured the dish's unique design, showcasing its intricate incising and floral motifs, including a central tulip. The date "1715" embossed into the dish, along with the "I.T" initials, likely represent its original owner and creation date. The work's intimate scale and emphasis on craftsmanship exemplify Lichten's interest in the history of Pennsylvania German folk art.