Pair of vases 1879 - 1889

These two vases, made by Haviland & Co., offer a glimpse into the aesthetic tastes and cultural dialogues of the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The company was founded in 1842 by an American family who moved to France to produce porcelain. In a period marked by industrialization and shifting social structures, decorative arts like these became important in the construction of personal and collective identities. These vases blend European artistry with Japonisme elements, seen in the subtle floral decorations. The rich glaze is visually striking. It evokes a sense of luxury that would appeal to the rising middle class eager to display their refined tastes. The floral motifs and the vessels' function as holders of beauty speak to the gendered spaces of the domestic sphere, where women were both creators and consumers of art. Consider how the Haviland & Co. sought to bridge cultural divides through art. These vases not only reflect the material aspirations of an era but also the complex interplay of identity, gender, and cultural exchange.