Hot Water Plate 1761 - 1793

This "Hot Water Plate" was crafted by Henry Will in the 18th century. The circular form, a symbol of wholeness and eternity, is echoed through time, from ancient ceremonial platters to modern dinnerware. Notice the handles, practical yet reminiscent of the handles on ancient amphorae, designed for transport and communal sharing. The symbolism of sharing nourishment is a powerful force that engages viewers on a deep, subconscious level. The vessel and its handles are not merely utilitarian, they’re ingrained in our cultural memory. Consider the Holy Grail, a vessel pursued not just for its physical properties, but for its power as a symbol of spiritual sustenance and community. The cycle continues, doesn't it? The plate, in its function and form, echoes through history, resurfacing with new meanings in each context.