Plateau 19th century

This earthenware Plateau was crafted by Bernard Palissy in the 16th century. The piece features a central scene of a satyr embraced by a nymph, evoking classical bacchanals. The surrounding border is adorned with masks of forest deities, cherubic figures, and lush foliage, all symbols of fertility and abundance. The satyr, half-man and half-goat, is a direct descendant of the ancient Greek depictions of Pan and Silenus. His image reappears through centuries, like in Titian’s "Bacchus and Ariadne", embodying primal instincts and the intoxicating power of nature. Palissy tapped into a deep well of collective memory, revealing in his work how ancient symbols continue to resonate, shaping our cultural narratives. The emotional power of these images lies in their ability to evoke a sense of timelessness, connecting us to the primal forces that have always driven human desire.