Spittoon with bouquets and flowers c. 1777 - 1790

Editor: So here we have a porcelain spittoon, dating from around 1777 to 1790, from Ansbach. It's adorned with these delightful little bouquets and flowers. Honestly, the first thing that strikes me is the contrast: such a delicate, pretty object meant for, well, expectoration. What's your take? Curator: Isn’t that a curious dichotomy? It makes one ponder the societal niceties of the era, doesn't it? Hiding the less graceful aspects of human behavior behind an aesthetic facade. The Rococo style here – see the delicate curves and ornate details? – was all about elegance, and the bouquets feel almost like a fragrant distraction. Do you find that it elevates or obscures the purpose? Editor: That's a great question. I guess a bit of both? I can see the effort to civilize… but also the absurdity of it. It reminds me of some strange compromise between the beautiful and the banal. It feels a bit humorous, if you ask me. Curator: Exactly! Humor often sneaks into these everyday objects of the past, doesn't it? Now, consider the porcelain itself. This type of delicate pottery became immensely popular in Europe at the time. It wasn’t just functional; it was a status symbol. Do you think owning such a lavish spittoon spoke to something beyond mere hygiene? Editor: Absolutely. Owning one of these would mean you have made it! Plus the painting looks rather… artisanal! Curator: Right. It whispered wealth, refinement, and perhaps even a playful jab at social conventions. Though maybe not so playful if one was on the receiving end! In any case, I think we can say it makes us reflect on how appearances shape our perceptions and soften, or try to soften, harsh realities. What about you? Editor: It’s so true. I never expected to find so much to unpack from something as simple as a spittoon! So, yes, I have really expanded my ideas about how appearance speaks volumes. Thank you so much.