Pitcher 1852 - 1858

This pitcher was crafted by the United States Pottery Company in the late 19th century. Observe the abundant motifs of grapes, vines, and the lively scene of the hunt. These symbols are ancient, harking back to Dionysian revelries of classical antiquity. Grapes, intrinsically linked to wine, represent not just simple merriment but a deeper, ecstatic communion. We find echoes of this symbolism across cultures, from the Bacchic festivals of Rome to similar motifs adorning Renaissance paintings, each reiteration subtly altering the emotional resonance. The hunting scene stirs primal instincts of pursuit and dominance. Consider the transformation of the canine figure on the handle, from a mere hunting companion to a symbol of loyalty, evolving through centuries of art and lore. These images resonate so profoundly because they tap into our collective memory, a shared subconscious that evokes powerful, often conflicting emotions tied to pleasure, mortality, and the untamed aspects of human nature. The symbolism of this seemingly simple pitcher reveals how forms and figures cyclically progress through time, constantly evolving and adopting new meanings as they traverse historical contexts.