Dish 1832 - 1838

Tucker and Hemphill made this dish around 1831 to 1837. The eye is immediately drawn to the dish's form, a striking silhouette outlined in a bold, dark trim. The stark contrast between the white porcelain and the dark border creates a crisp, graphic quality, almost like a line drawing come to life. At the center, a delicate floral arrangement softens the geometric rigidity, introducing a touch of the organic within the structured design. The asymmetry of the floral placement adds a dynamic tension, preventing the piece from becoming overly formal. Consider the semiotic implications. The floral motif is not just decorative; it’s a signifier, traditionally associated with delicacy and beauty. Yet, the dish's overall design suggests a more complex interplay between nature and artifice, challenging simplistic interpretations. The form and decoration work in concert to create a sense of controlled elegance, a hallmark of Tucker and Hemphill's artistic vision.