Servies before 1884

This photograph by Lemercier & Cie. captures a pristine porcelain dinner service. Porcelain begins as a humble clay, yet transforms through intense heat into a material prized for its translucence and delicacy. The surface of the porcelain is adorned with intricate decorations. These images, most likely transferred onto the surface via industrial printing techniques, speak to the mass production and consumption that define the modern era. They remind us that even objects of apparent refinement are often made possible by labor, commerce and technology. The photograph itself, with its stark contrast and careful composition, further elevates these everyday objects to the realm of art. It encourages us to consider the cultural and economic forces that shape our aesthetic preferences. By exploring the relationship between material, making, and social context, we can gain a deeper appreciation for the objects that surround us, challenging traditional distinctions between fine art and craft.