Schaal met vliegende herten in reliëf c. 1905

This metal bowl with flying stag beetles in relief was made by G. Dikkers & Co. The visual codes employed here point towards the aesthetic and cultural movement of Art Nouveau. The curvilinear forms and stylized natural motifs of the beetles and plants are typical features. Art Nouveau emerged in the late 19th century as a reaction against industrialization, embracing craftsmanship and organic designs. Consider the social context in which this bowl might have been produced. Was it intended for domestic use, reflecting a desire to bring art into everyday life? Or was it perhaps commissioned for a more formal setting, showcasing the owner's refined taste and embrace of modern design? Further research into the manufacturing company, G. Dikkers & Co, might reveal more about the intended market for such pieces. The bowl thus serves as a cultural artifact, embodying the artistic ideals and social aspirations of its time.