Octagonal vase with scenes of the story of the silkworm 1868 - 1878

This Octagonal vase with scenes of the story of the silkworm was created by James Hadley in the 19th century, with porcelain. The first thing you might notice is the interplay of geometric and organic forms. The hard lines of the octagonal shape contrast with the soft, flowing lines of the figures and the landscape, creating a visual tension. The vase is divided into distinct panels, each depicting scenes from the silkworm story, almost like a comic strip. The composition is further complicated by the color scheme: muted earth tones are juxtaposed with the stark white of the porcelain and the gleam of gilt accents, destabilizing traditional notions of harmony. The perspective within each panel is flattened, drawing attention to the surface and emphasizing the vase’s objecthood rather than creating an illusionistic space. Hadley is playing with the viewer's perception by challenging fixed perspectives and questioning conventional artistic expectations.