Plate 19th century

This plate was made in the early 19th century by James and Ralph Clews, in Staffordshire, England. During this period, ceramics became a canvas for projecting cultural values and societal aspirations. The plate’s design weaves together idealized scenes of pastoral life with classical motifs, reflecting the era’s fascination with both nature and antiquity. These images aren't just decorative; they speak to the social structures of the time, subtly reinforcing notions of class and gender. We see serene landscapes and vignettes of leisure, carefully constructed to evoke a sense of harmony and order. Yet, this harmony often obscures the labor and social inequalities that underpinned the production and consumption of such luxury items. The act of displaying such a plate in one’s home was a statement, a performance of taste and social standing. It speaks volumes about the desires and self-perceptions of the burgeoning middle class in an era defined by rapid industrialization and social change.