Platter c. 1826

This platter was created by Ralph Clews, showcasing a monochromatic blue transferware design. Its circular form is filled with an array of images, text, and decorative flourishes, resulting in a complex visual experience. The composition is structured around a central scene featuring the White House, flanked by allegorical figures symbolizing America. Encircling this scene are the names of the states, creating a symbolic border. Clews uses the circular shape of the plate to create a sense of unity, yet the densely packed imagery challenges any easy reading. Each element functions as a sign within a larger system. Consider the central image of the White House, for example, juxtaposed with figures representing ideals of liberty and independence, these visual elements come together to construct a narrative of American identity and progress. Ultimately, the platter's circular format invites us to consider how these diverse elements create meaning and how they might destabilize fixed notions of national identity.