Tureen 1814 - 1830

This Tureen was made by Crown Derby, though the specific date is unknown, and is now housed at the Metropolitan Museum of Art. Visually, the piece is dominated by a striking contrast between its deep cobalt blue and the delicate white porcelain. The gilded foliage cascades across the dark blue background, creating a sense of opulence. Note the strategic placement of floral cartouches which offer a moment of visual relief. Structurally, the Tureen’s design reveals much about the values of its era. The balance between ornamentation and utility speaks to the intersection of art and life. The symmetry reinforces a sense of order. The lavish use of gold is more than decoration, it signifies wealth. Each choice reflects the cultural codes of luxury, status, and refinement, inviting us to decode the values embedded within its form. This piece doesn't just hold soup, it presents a world of social meaning.