Mustard Pot with Stand 1754 - 1760

This mustard pot with stand was made by the Strasbourg Pottery and Porcelain Factory in the 18th century. During this time, the production of such refined tableware spoke to a burgeoning bourgeoisie eager to mimic the lifestyles of the aristocracy. Yet, even within these displays of wealth, class distinctions were subtly reinforced, as only certain echelons of society could afford such luxuries. The colorful floral decorations, while seemingly innocuous, evoke a sense of idealized nature, a common theme in art made during a period of industrial expansion and colonization. The flowers are a reminder of the world beyond urban centers and signal control over the natural world. These objects were not merely functional; they were potent signifiers of identity, wealth, and power. They offered a glimpse into the complex social dynamics of 18th-century Europe.