Pair of vases 1722 - 1733

These vases were made by Ignaz Preissler in the 18th century, standing just over 6 inches tall. The immediate impression is one of delicate symmetry and contrast, as the neutral creamy white glaze is decorated with an intricate pattern of black ornamental designs. The structure of the decoration emphasizes a dialogue between representation and abstraction. Note how the figurative scenes with seated figures are framed and almost camouflaged within the more abstract motifs of scrolls, foliage and architectural elements. This interplay might suggest an interest in the period’s complex social and artistic codes, where decoration served not just an aesthetic purpose but also as a means of encoding cultural meanings. The seemingly simple binary of black and white is disrupted by the complexity of the ornamental details. The lack of vibrant colors prompts us to focus on the linear elements and the skill required to achieve this level of detail on a curved surface. These vases ultimately invite us to look closely at the relationship between form and decoration.