Dish c. 1775

This porcelain dish was made by the Worcester Royal Porcelain Company. It’s an object that encapsulates the socio-economic structures of its time, reflecting both the artistry of its creation and the world of domesticity it was designed to serve. Consider the cultural narrative embedded in this decorative object, made during an era of industrial expansion and empire. The floral design is more than mere decoration. It's a statement of refinement and luxury, intended for a particular class of people. As such, the dish becomes a signifier of social identity, reflecting the values and aspirations of the society that produced and consumed it. These porcelains were not just functional items, but symbols of status and taste, adorning the tables of those who benefitted from an economic system deeply rooted in colonialism and class division. The quiet beauty of the dish can be seen as a lens through which to consider the complex dynamics of gender, class, and power that shaped the era.