Schotel, beschilderd met bloemen c. 1880

This is a ceramic plate, painted with floral designs, crafted by De Porceleijne Fles. Notice how the cobalt blue decorations create a striking contrast against the white ground, immediately capturing the eye. The design features stylized flowers and foliage arranged in a circular pattern around the edge, framing the central well of the plate. The artist's careful application of color and form results in a composition that is both decorative and structurally intriguing. The symmetry, the spacing of motifs, and the interplay between positive and negative space all contribute to a sense of balance. The subtle crackling in the glaze, known as crazing, disrupts the otherwise smooth surface, adding a layer of complexity to the visual experience. This plate engages with the dialogue between craftsmanship and aesthetic intention. It underscores how an everyday object can become a canvas for artistic expression.