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

This plate, part of a set of six, was crafted by John Turner around 1780, showcasing a vibrant scene painted with a clear interest in form and narrative. The work immediately draws us in with its circular composition, featuring a gathering of figures around a table, all framed by an ornate, scalloped edge decorated with floral and spiral motifs. Turner’s use of color is particularly striking, with bold reds, greens, and yellows delineating shapes and adding depth to the scene. Each figure is carefully rendered, and the interplay of lines creates a dynamic sense of movement and interaction. The plate's central gathering is framed by an archway of sorts, which divides the image and lends it a sense of theatricality, as though we are viewing a performance. Notice the balance Turner strikes between realism and stylization. While the figures are depicted with attention to detail, the overall composition embraces a degree of flatness, typical of folk art. This choice invites us to consider the function of the plate not merely as decoration but as a form of storytelling. Through his artful arrangement of form, color, and narrative, Turner offers a glimpse into the cultural life of his time.