Round dish with lobster and shells 1865 - 1880

This round dish with lobster and shells was crafted by Thomas-Victor Sergent. At first glance, this artwork seems to be a celebration of the natural world, particularly marine life. But let's think more deeply. The image is carefully arranged, the lobster centrally placed and surrounded by shells, each element meticulously rendered. Made in France, this type of elaborate ceramic work was popular among the elite classes, reflecting their refined taste and appreciation for luxury goods. The artwork is a product of its time, mirroring the social and economic structures that supported its creation. By studying historical records, such as workshop accounts and exhibition catalogs, we can better understand the institutional forces behind this artwork. We might then reflect on the meaning of art as something contingent on social and institutional context.