Tray 1781 - 1787

Editor: Here we have a beautiful porcelain tray, created in Bordeaux between 1781 and 1787. Its Rococo style and delicate floral decorations give it an airy, ornamental feel. How does the materiality inform our understanding of this functional piece? Curator: Well, porcelain production in 18th-century Bordeaux wasn't just about aesthetics; it reflected a larger shift in European economies. The rise of porcelain factories signaled a move towards industrialization and a growing market for luxury goods, changing patterns of consumption. Consider who would have been able to afford something like this, what social strata they occupied. Editor: So, beyond just admiring the craftsmanship, we should also think about the economics and social implications of this tray. Did the porcelain production process influence its artistic style? Curator: Absolutely. The Rococo style, with its emphasis on intricate details and asymmetry, was facilitated by the capabilities of porcelain. Mass production allowed these elaborate forms and decorations to be more widely disseminated. What I am curious to know is what that does to labor, both intellectual and manual, as compared to the era of individual craftspeople who had absolute knowledge of how the work came to be? Editor: That’s a fascinating point, the link between artistic expression, production techniques, and economic context. It makes me appreciate the tray in a new light. Curator: Exactly! By looking at the materials and manufacturing, we gain insights into broader social, cultural, and historical forces that shaped its creation and usage. Thank you.