Plate c. 1830 - 1860

This clear glass plate was created by Baccarat Glassworks. Its most striking feature is the honeycomb pattern at its center. The honeycomb, a structure built by bees, has long been a symbol of industry, cooperation, and community. In ancient times, it was associated with deities of fertility and abundance. We see similar motifs in mosaics from ancient Rome, where geometric patterns symbolized order and prosperity. Over time, the honeycomb has resurfaced in various forms, from architectural designs to heraldic emblems, each time carrying echoes of its earlier meanings. The human psyche is drawn to these patterns; they evoke a sense of harmony, a deep-seated recognition of nature’s inherent order. Here, the artist taps into this subconscious connection, inviting us to contemplate the intricate balance between individual effort and collective achievement. It is a continuous, cyclical progression of meaning.