Teapot c. 1777 - 1790

This delicate teapot was crafted by the Porseleinfabriek Den Haag, and is now housed in the Rijksmuseum. Observe the wild boar painted on its side, a symbol deeply rooted in the human psyche. In ancient times, the boar represented bravery and ferocity. It was a totemic animal, embodying the untamed aspects of nature. We can see its echoes in ancient Greek myths, where the Calydonian Boar was a symbol of destruction, and in the Norse sagas, where boars were associated with gods and warriors. Interestingly, the image of the boar has undergone a fascinating transformation over time. From a symbol of raw power, it morphed into a more complex figure, often associated with the hunt, aristocracy, and even culinary pleasure. The image of the boar evokes a primal response, tapping into our collective memory of the wilderness. It reminds us of the enduring power of nature, and the complex relationship between humans and the animal world.