Tazza c. 1678 - 1685

This Tazza, made by the Grieksche A Factory sometime between 1657 and 1818, presents us with an intricate tableau rendered in shades of blue. Consider the era in which this piece was crafted – a time of burgeoning global trade and cultural exchange, yet also one marked by profound power imbalances. The ‘Grieksche A Factory’ evokes a sense of place and identity. It references the cultural milieu in which the piece was produced, while the artwork’s visual language borrows from Chinese porcelain traditions. The result is something new. Notice the imagery – birds, trees, water – elements carefully placed, evoking an idealized vision of nature. This wasn’t just decorative; it was a symbol of status, a demonstration of refinement and worldliness for those who could afford it. The Tazza invites us to reflect on the historical and social conditions that shaped its creation, as well as our own relationship to objects of beauty and utility.