Plate 19th century

This plate, crafted by J. and W. Ridgway in Cauldon, Stoke, presents a fascinating tableau of symbols. Dominating the center is a cathedral scene, a potent symbol of spiritual aspiration. The cherubs bordering the composition remind us of the enduring motif of divine love and innocence, harking back to classical depictions of Eros and Psyche. Observe how these cherubic figures, emblems of pure affection, echo across cultures, appearing in Renaissance paintings and even in later Rococo decorations. This enduring presence reflects a deep-seated human desire for connection. The architectural scene, with its gothic spires pointing towards the heavens, resonates with the same yearning for transcendence found in ancient ziggurats and temples. This plate is not merely a decorative object; it is a vessel carrying potent symbols that speak to our collective memory. These symbols, passed down through generations, continue to evoke powerful emotional and psychological responses, linking us to our past.