Monumental vase 1885 - 1895

Editor: This is Ernest Chaplet's "Monumental Vase," made of porcelain ceramic sometime between 1885 and 1895. I am immediately struck by the almost geological look of the glaze, like looking at the earth's crust. How do you interpret its form and its decorative elements, especially within the context of the late 19th century? Curator: Well, considering its place in history, this vase wasn't merely decorative; it was making a statement. During that period, the Arts and Crafts movement was gaining momentum, pushing back against industrialization. Chaplet, while embracing ceramic production, aligned himself with the movement’s core tenet of elevating craftsmanship, creating pieces that served both aesthetic and functional purposes. Notice the "monumental" size, how it commands presence. This asserts ceramics as a fine art, not just a craft. What about the glazes – what do you see there? Editor: I see controlled chaos, maybe? The dripping, the pooling… it's intentional but feels somewhat random, right? Curator: Exactly. Think of it as a rebellion against the highly polished, flawless porcelain that was prized earlier in the century. The somewhat 'imperfect' glaze and that organic feel of the colour palette are integral to this counter-narrative. It champions artistic expression and a more raw, natural aesthetic in a period of rapid technological advancement. It questions, almost subtly, where the value lies, beauty as a commodity versus beauty born of labour and inherent material qualities. What kind of impact do you think it had? Editor: I can see how it encouraged artists to value unique craftsmanship, rather than mass production. That shift toward authenticity is a trend we see echoing throughout the decorative arts even today! It also changed my idea about the public perception of art! Curator: Precisely! Understanding those shifts enriches our appreciation.