Round, flat bodied bottle (one of a pair) 1865 - 1885

Here we see a pair of round, flat-bodied bottles designed by Christopher Dresser. The vibrant turquoise enamel, intricately patterned with curvilinear forms, immediately captures the eye. Gold highlights accentuate the bottle's contours, enhancing its luxurious appeal. Dresser, a proponent of the Aesthetic Movement, sought to elevate functional objects to the realm of art. These bottles embody this philosophy, merging industrial production with artistic design. The surface decoration, reminiscent of both Persian and Japanese motifs, reflects the Victorian era's fascination with exotic cultures. The careful arrangement of floral and geometric shapes creates a sense of visual harmony. Consider how Dresser uses the bottle's form as a canvas, challenging the traditional hierarchy between fine and decorative arts. The overall effect is not merely decorative but also intellectually stimulating, inviting us to question established notions of taste and value. These bottles exist as dynamic sites of cultural exchange and artistic innovation.