Small Plate with Egyptian Decoration before 1810

Curator: My first impression is one of antiquity, it feels like something unearthed. Editor: Indeed, it evokes a sense of the ancient world. This is a small plate with Egyptian Decoration, created by Wedgwood. It is located at the Harvard Art Museums. Curator: The Egyptian motifs are striking. I see Horus, the ankh symbol, and other familiar images rendered in black against the red clay. They must have had powerful associations for those who used this plate. Editor: It certainly speaks to the pervasive influence of Egyptomania during the period. The choice to replicate these symbols highlights a fascination with exotic cultures and a desire to connect with perceived ancient wisdom. Wedgwood was capitalizing on that trend. Curator: It's interesting how cultural symbols are extracted and recontextualized. These aren't mere decorations; they are condensed narratives carrying centuries of cultural and spiritual significance. Editor: Agreed. It also speaks to how art serves as a cultural artifact, reflecting both the values of its creators and the historical context in which it was made. I appreciate seeing how the public role of art connects us across time. Curator: This small plate offers a glimpse into the ongoing human search for meaning and connection to the past. Editor: It’s left me reflecting on the politics of imagery, even in decorative arts. Thanks for taking the time to talk about it.