Plate (part of a set of six) 1785 - 1795

This tin-glazed earthenware plate was made in the 1780s by John Turner. Its production involved forming the plate, applying an opaque white glaze, and then painting the design in colored enamels, before firing. What strikes me most is how this luxurious object, intended for display or special occasions, reflects wider social dynamics. The scene depicts a risqué interior, a world of consumption and perhaps moral compromise. Notice the detail in the figures' clothing and the elaborate border design; this wasn't just about functionality, but about making a statement. The painting technique itself is fascinating, a skilled hand carefully applying pigments to create a vibrant scene. Turner was part of a creative tradition that blurred the lines between craft and art. By focusing on its materials and making, we gain insight into its cultural values. It encourages us to look beyond the surface, and recognize that objects like these are not only decorative, but also potent expressions of class, labor, and social life.