Service with bouquets and flower sprays c. 1839

Editor: Here we have a ceramic earthenware service with bouquets and flower sprays, dating back to about 1839, made by Fabriek Dominique Denuelle. I’m struck by the sheer number of pieces and the delicate floral pattern. It almost feels like a still life painting laid out on a table. What can you tell me about its history and context? Curator: This service offers a glimpse into the social rituals surrounding dining in the 19th century. The extensive collection speaks to an elaborate dining culture within a specific social class, signaling status through its craftsmanship and quantity. Think about the power dynamics inherent in serving a meal with such meticulously decorated objects. What sort of societal function did decorative pieces like this hold? Editor: I imagine that owning something like this would communicate wealth and taste. Were these kinds of services common, or was this unusually extravagant? Curator: Floral motifs had gained immense popularity by the 1830's through textile production, influencing everything from fashion to interior décor and, naturally, dining ware. The flower-sprayed decoration could also symbolize wealth and connection to nature. But more importantly, the fact it's *earthenware* – as opposed to more expensive porcelain, readily available at the time – begs a question. Perhaps this was an attempt by a rising middle class to emulate the aristocracy. What message do you think a service like this sent in contrast to more expensive materials? Editor: So it wasn't just about display, but also about participating in certain social games. Seeing it now, away from its original setting, those power dynamics aren't immediately obvious, but they definitely change how I view it. Curator: Exactly. By examining the social context, we see the service wasn’t merely decorative, but deeply implicated in performing class and taste. Editor: I hadn’t considered the social messaging inherent in everyday objects like this. It gives the work a much richer meaning than just pretty flowers.