Still Life with Apples on an 'East Indian' Plate 1726 - 1763

Johan Hörner created this still life with oil on canvas, featuring apples on an 'East Indian' plate. Painted in the 18th century, it reflects a period of burgeoning global trade and colonial expansion. The "East Indian" plate isn't merely a decorative object; it symbolizes Europe's relationship with the East. Goods from Asia, like porcelain, were highly coveted, embodying a sense of luxury and exoticism. Yet, this desire came at a cost, marking the beginning of exploitative trade relationships. The apples, symbols of temptation and abundance, sit upon a plate that represents a world of complex cultural exchanges and power dynamics. Horner's arrangement invites us to consider the stories behind the objects we consume and their connection to broader histories of cultural exchange. The painting, therefore, is not just about aesthetics but about understanding our global interconnectedness.