Onderschotel c. 1775

This is a Loosdrecht porcelain saucer, made in the Netherlands. Its delicate purple illustrations offer a window into the aesthetic preferences and social values of the late 18th century. The scenes decorating the plate aren't mere decoration; they reflect a deliberate engagement with contemporary artistic trends. These pastoral scenes, rendered in a refined style, speak to the growing popularity of romanticizing rural life. This was a period where the elite found solace and beauty in idealized depictions of the countryside, a trend fueled by broader social and economic shifts. The rise of a merchant class and increasing urbanization created a longing for a simpler, more natural existence, even if it was largely imagined. To truly understand this saucer, we can delve into the archives of the Loosdrecht porcelain factory, explore period literature, and examine the patronage networks that supported such artistic production. By piecing together this history, we can better appreciate how this object reflects its time.