Covered Potpourri Jar 1883 - 1890

This covered potpourri jar was made by Ott and Brewer, an American company, around 1871 to 1893. It's a fascinating object, reflecting both the opulence of the Gilded Age and the era’s complex relationship with nature. The jar's design, with its delicate porcelain, gilded accents, and organic motifs, speaks to the period's fascination with luxury and the natural world. The classical head on the lid, combined with the lotus-like ornamentation, shows a blending of different cultural references, typical of the eclectic tastes of the time. This was an era of rapid industrialization and social change, and the creation of beautiful, decorative objects like this provided an escape from the harsh realities of urban life, creating a sense of refinement and sophistication. Looking at historical records, company archives, and design catalogs would provide further insights into the social and institutional context of this piece, helping us to understand its original function and how it was perceived by its intended audience.