Vase c. 1690 - 1700

This vase was made at the Grieksche A Factory sometime between 1657 and 1818. Its blue and white decoration demonstrates the widespread influence of Chinese porcelain on European ceramics during this period. The images, however, are far from Chinese. They reference classical antiquity, with putti, female figures, and a fountain. Above these scenes, we see what appears to be a coat of arms depicting a horse and rider. The vase gives us a glimpse into the visual culture of the Dutch Republic. It demonstrates the tastes of its elite citizens, who would fill their homes with such decorative objects. Objects like this vase are important historical resources. By consulting estate inventories, auction catalogs, and other documents, we can learn more about the people who owned and used them. These historical approaches allow us to understand not only the aesthetic qualities of art but also its social life.