Design for a cup 19th century

This is an anonymous design for a cup, rendered in watercolor on paper. The cup's design is striking for its vertical tripartite division. Each panel features stylized floral arrangements against a deep purple backdrop, framed by geometric patterns. The eye is drawn to the interplay between the naturalistic floral motifs and the rigid, almost architectural borders. Notice how the artist uses color to create depth and contrast, the soft washes of the flowers set against the boldness of the purple. This contrast between organic and geometric form destabilizes conventional design aesthetics. The semiotic system at play here juxtaposes traditional symbols of nature with culturally constructed patterns, reflecting the artist's exploration of decorative language. Ultimately, it is the combination of color, form, and pattern that creates a visually engaging composition. The cup design functions aesthetically and prompts one to consider the broader cultural discourse surrounding ornamentation.