Tureen with Cover 1800 - 1900

This drawing of a "Tureen with Cover" is rendered in ink on paper by an anonymous artist. The lines articulate a play between the functional and the ornamental, between geometric regularity and organic exuberance. The formal structure of the piece reveals a fascinating interplay of elements. We see a symmetrical arrangement, with the tureen's oval body supported by stylized lion's paws, and the cover crowned with a finial that mimics a pinecone. The linear quality of the ink strokes allows for a cross-hatching effect, especially on the sides of the tureen, giving depth and volume to the object. This creates a tactile sense of the texture of the material. The handles on either side, adorned with lion heads, introduce a semiotic code that invokes classical motifs of power and elegance. The artwork’s graphic style evokes a sense of historical design, inviting us to consider the cultural values it embodies, hinting at the discourses of luxury.