Wandbord, polychroom beschilderd met vogelmotief 1887

This is a ceramic plate with polychrome decoration, made by N.V. Haagsche Plateelfabriek Rozenburg, a Dutch company. Although undated, it reflects the Art Nouveau style that swept across Europe at the turn of the twentieth century. The flowing lines and organic forms are typical of the style, seen here in the stylized bird and floral motifs. The piece evokes the broader cultural fascination with nature. Rozenburg was founded in 1883 in The Hague and became known for its high-quality, decorative ceramics. Companies like Rozenburg democratized the art world and enabled access to a wider audience, outside the traditional elite. By considering company records, design catalogs, and period advertising, the social role of decorative arts can be better understood. The interpretation of art is always contingent on its social and institutional context.