“Penny Woodens” Tea Set 1913 - 1917

Editor: This lovely ceramic tea set, titled "Penny Woodens" and crafted between 1913 and 1917 by S. Fielding and Company, gives off such a whimsical and lighthearted vibe. The figures in mid-frolic definitely catch your eye. What do you see in this piece from a historical perspective? Curator: The "Penny Woodens" Tea Set, produced during the cusp of significant social change in England, presents a fascinating tension. Art Nouveau, with its emphasis on organic forms and decorative elements, was waning in popularity. What was gaining traction at the time, and even seen as radical was modernism. Editor: That’s an interesting point! I wouldn't immediately associate this piece with something radical. Curator: Exactly. Consider the social context: World War I was raging. How does the whimsical scene of playing children contrast with the harsh realities of the era? Is this an escapist fantasy catering to a specific class, or could it offer solace during wartime? How was this tea set marketed and consumed? The very act of making and acquiring decorative wares took a hit as factories took to helping the war efforts instead. Editor: So, you’re suggesting that a seemingly simple tea set could be reflecting or even subtly commenting on the social and political landscape of its time? Almost as an act of resistance through something as simple as decor? Curator: Precisely. The Arts and Crafts movement was already criticizing industrial production, which was considered alienating to humans, for a while. Art like this would suggest going back to "the simpler days," as opposed to "industrial advancement." Even something considered "decorative" at this time should be observed more carefully, in my opinion. Editor: I see. I never considered that decorative arts could provide this great level of social commentary, it opens up new paths for interpreting artwork! Thank you. Curator: You're welcome! Now you can have an informed conversation over tea and understand where it truly brews.