Untitled 

This leaf plate was made by Christian Royal in recent years, using glazed ceramic. The artist has used the inherent plasticity of the clay to create a square form, with softened edges. The leaf is painted in a loose, painterly style. The plate is a humble form. In its making, the artist has engaged with the whole history of studio pottery, calling on traditions and techniques that were often considered as 'craft', outside of fine art. This plate prompts us to consider the amount of work involved in the production process; the time invested in crafting each individual item. By blurring the boundaries between craft and art, Royal is asking us to reconsider these distinctions in order to better appreciate the handmade in our mass-produced world.