Greyhound 1750 - 1760

This delightful Greyhound, made of porcelain at the Chelsea Porcelain Manufactory, presents a charming tableau of symbols. The greyhound, traditionally a symbol of loyalty and aristocracy, is here adorned with floral motifs, most prominently the rose, a symbol of love and beauty since antiquity. Observe how the rose, which first appeared in ancient Greek and Roman art associated with Aphrodite and Venus, reappears here in 18th-century England, subtly shifting in meaning. From divine love to courtly affection, it is a testament to the rose's enduring power to evoke emotion, a collective memory passed down through centuries. Atop the vessel sits a dove, universally recognized as a symbol of peace, purity, and, in Christian iconography, the Holy Spirit. The presence of the dove perched above the rose-adorned vase creates a powerful emotional resonance. It whispers of harmony and a longing for tranquility. These symbols invite us to reflect on how deeply ingrained certain images are in our collective consciousness. We see how they continue to resonate, albeit with altered nuances, across different epochs.