Bowl with a squirrel and flowering plants near a rock c. 1740

This is a faience bowl, made by Chantilly. Faience is a tin-glazed earthenware, which gives it a bright, white surface that's perfect for decoration. The making of faience objects like this bowl has a long, rich history. It requires skilled artisans who understand the nuances of clay, glazing, and firing. The painted decoration, featuring a squirrel, plants, and rocks, adds another layer of complexity, as it needs a steady hand and a deep understanding of color and composition. All these steps are labor intensive and demand precision. Bowls like this one reflect a culture of refinement and consumption. They speak to a society that values not just functionality, but also beauty and artistry in everyday objects. They also represent a highly developed division of labor. By considering the materials, the making, and the cultural context, we can appreciate the full significance of this faience bowl, challenging any strict divide between art and craft.