Side plate c. 1800

This side plate was made by Wedgwood in England during the latter half of the 18th century. The botanical motifs painted on these plates connect to a wider interest in scientific classification during this period. In the 1700s, Western science turned its attention to the systematic study of the natural world, and these designs reflect that interest, and attempt to display botanical accuracy. But this plate also shows us something of the social context in which this kind of study took place. This was a period in which consumerism grew, and the rising middle classes wanted to display their wealth and taste through household goods like ceramics. The designs on Wedgwood ware catered to this market. In order to understand the world of art objects such as this, the historian must use a wide range of resources from design history, economic history, and the history of science.