Pitcher c. 18th century

This pitcher is decorated with an array of floral motifs and a leaping hare, symbols rich with layers of meaning. The flowers evoke themes of spring, renewal, and the ephemeral nature of beauty. Yet, it is the hare that truly captures our attention. This creature appears across cultures, from ancient mythologies to contemporary art. In some traditions, the hare is a symbol of fertility and abundance, while in others, it embodies vigilance and transformation. The hare leaps, seemingly propelled by an unseen force, echoing the emotional intensity that animates the human psyche. Like the figures in Renaissance paintings, this hare conveys movement and inner life. From antiquity to modern times, the symbol of the hare has undergone a series of transformations. It resurfaces in illuminated manuscripts and tapestries, each time imbued with new cultural and symbolic meanings. As we contemplate this pitcher, let us reflect on the enduring power of these symbols, how they transcend time and space, evoking emotional responses that resonate deep within our collective memory.