Cup plate 1830 - 1835

Editor: So, this charming cobalt-blue glass piece is called "Cup Plate," and it dates from 1830 to 1835. The artist is listed as anonymous, and it resides here at the Art Institute of Chicago. It’s giving me a sort of antique Americana vibe, and it's surprisingly intricate for such a small object. What leaps out at you? Curator: Oh, isn’t it a darling? It reminds me of simpler times when folks had a touch more ceremony in their lives. Imagine the scene: ladies and gentlemen sipping tea, using this very plate to avoid drips— a moment frozen in time! That striking eagle at the center— does it not give you the feeling of gazing into a pool of national pride, back when Neoclassicism was all the rage? Do you think the deep blue hue evokes that feeling further? Editor: Definitely. I mean, the eagle’s so prominent, surrounded by what looks like stars. Was it common to see patriotic symbols on everyday objects? Curator: Absolutely! Think of it as a daily dose of patriotism. Mass production allowed for images like this to spread far and wide, democratizing access to…well, national symbolism. And remember, back then, glass was relatively precious. Can you imagine how delighted one might be, to have something beautiful *and* useful? It really is delightful, isn’t it? What's your biggest takeaway here? Editor: That even simple objects can be little vessels of history and national identity. I’ll definitely be paying closer attention to the decorative arts from now on! Curator: Indeed! It's a potent reminder to find the beautiful stories in everyday things. Wonderful.