Plate c. 18th century

Curator: Let's turn our attention to this fascinating piece: an 18th-century earthenware plate, currently held in the collection of the Minneapolis Institute of Art. Editor: My first impression is of balanced composure, but also curious iconography; this palette evokes classicism, yet there's something unusual in the depiction that's more provincial. Curator: Indeed. Plates such as these were often part of larger sets, reflecting wealth and status. In terms of interpretation, the central female figure offers some compelling social commentary, especially when considering her context. The female form is central. Editor: For me, it's this central figure that fascinates. She holds what seems to be a book and what is maybe a tower. There is no standard depiction of women, making their imagery ripe for reading into symbols and historical references. We need to know the possible iconography, like if this references the virginity tower with Saint Barbara holding one. Curator: Exactly. In this context, perhaps it represents female agency, an embrace of classical learning and independence symbolized by the tower. Think of other possible interpretations as related to that symbol. Consider too, how her stance, rather upright with an air of defiance in her gaze, subtly challenges the predominantly male perspective in art, even through utilitarian objects like a decorative plate. Editor: The colours also seem important. That distinctive gold and blues combination is bold but has classical roots, which makes me wonder how this family wished to position themselves in a cultural narrative, what heritage it evokes. I mean this image may serve both practical and symbolic functions. What might someone in that time and place gather? Curator: This piece acts as a window, allowing us to look more deeply into the status and the cultural aspirations and, of course, the evolving representations of the gender. Editor: A daily object transformed into a meaningful social object.