Saucer with insects, flower sprays and grapevines c. 1797 - 1798

This porcelain saucer, adorned with insects, flowers, and vines, offers a fascinating glimpse into the symbolic language of its time. Butterflies, with their metamorphosis, have long been emblems of transformation and the soul's journey, while flowers, in their ephemeral beauty, remind us of life's fleeting nature. In antiquity, the butterfly was often linked to Psyche, representing the human soul's immortality. Similarly, vines and grapes, symbols of abundance and fertility, can be traced back to Dionysian rituals, evoking ecstatic states and the cyclical rhythms of nature. Notice how the delicate rendering of these motifs engages our emotions, stirring feelings of wonder and introspection. These images resonate with a collective memory, tapping into primal associations that transcend time. The butterfly, for example, may appear in ancient Greek funerary art or in contemporary works exploring themes of rebirth and spiritual awakening. It is not a linear progression but a cyclical return.