Plate with marine subject 1784 - 1797

This porcelain plate with a marine subject was crafted by Dihl et Guérhard, presenting a seemingly simple tableau. Yet, beneath its delicate surface lie layers of symbolic meaning and cultural resonance. The fish, central to the plate’s composition, are not merely objects of still life; they are potent symbols of abundance, fertility, and transformation. In ancient cultures, from the Near East to the Mediterranean, fish were associated with deities of the sea and rivers, embodying life-giving forces. The golden laurel leaves encircling the plate evoke classical motifs of victory and eternity, drawing on a visual language deeply rooted in Greco-Roman tradition. Consider how the fish, as a symbol, appears in early Christian art, representing Christ and the faithful, or its recurrence in Dutch Golden Age painting, signifying wealth and prosperity. The emotional pull of these symbols transcends time, engaging viewers in a subconscious dialogue with the past. The non-linear progression of symbols allows them to resurface and take on new meanings across historical contexts, enriching our understanding of the continuous interplay between past and present.