Chess Piece: Pawn c. 19th century

This chess pawn, crafted in ceramic by the Wedgwood Manufactory, features a melancholic male figure paired with a dolphin, a motif steeped in historical and cultural significance. Observe how the dolphin, often associated with guidance and salvation in ancient Greek and Roman art, is here embraced in a manner that evokes both protection and sorrow. Recall the myth of Arion, saved by a dolphin's song, or Poseidon, often depicted with these creatures, symbolizing power over the seas and the subconscious. The image resonates with a deeper psychological theme: the connection between man and nature, where the dolphin, a symbol of intuition, emerges from the depths of the unconscious. This blue figure embodies a dreamlike state, engaging us on a profoundly subconscious level. The pawn, emblematic of sacrifice in chess, further enriches the narrative, presenting a poignant reflection on destiny. As we contemplate this figure, we witness the symbol’s non-linear journey, its persistent return across diverse epochs, perpetually adapting, evolving, and accumulating layers of significance.