Schotel behorende bij dekselpot, beschilderd met bloemen in roze en goud c. 1775 - 1800

This dish, part of a lidded pot, was decorated by an anonymous artist with pink and gold flowers. The smooth surface of the porcelain has been elevated by the meticulous painting of the floral design. It's fascinating to consider what this object represents. The use of porcelain itself speaks to global trade, connecting Europe to the ceramic traditions of China. But the decoration, with its intricate detail, also speaks to the division of labor. One set of artisans would have been responsible for producing the basic ceramic form, while another, likely more specialized, would have applied the decoration. The addition of gold is particularly interesting. It elevates the object, suggesting luxury and status, but also points to the economic systems that supported its creation. The application of delicate brushstrokes to create these fine objects suggests that the artist was highly skilled and well trained. These types of objects were not just functional but also markers of social status and taste.