Oval dish 1702 - 1703

This oval dish was made by Pierre Platel, who was born in France in 1659 but worked in London. In the late 17th and early 18th centuries, London became a melting pot of artistic talent, particularly for Huguenots like Platel, fleeing religious persecution in France. This dish, likely crafted for a wealthy London household, speaks to themes of identity and assimilation. While the form adheres to the symmetry and elegance valued by the British elite, Platel's French heritage subtly infuses the piece with a distinct flair. Reflecting on its place at the table, one can imagine the silent dialogues it might have witnessed—conversations about politics, trade, or perhaps the latest fashions. The dish’s polished surface offers us a mirror, reflecting not just our image but also the complex interplay of cultures and identities that shaped its creation.