Dinner Plate

Art Historical Context

This elegant dinner plate, crafted by the renowned Paris porcelain firm Dihl et Guérhard between 1800 1815, exemplifies exquisite hard-paste porcelain production that rivaled the finest Sèvres wares. Measuring just 1¼ inches high and 9¼ inches in, its delicate form was designed for the American market, reflecting the transatlantic luxury trade during the early years of the United States. The plate's surface likely features meticulously painted motifs of flags—symbolizing American patriotism amid events like the Louisiana Purchase and the War of 1812—applied with vibrant enamels and intricate gilding, techniques that showcased the factory's mastery of overglaze decoration for durability and brilliance. As a French import cherished by affluent Americans, this piece highlights the era's cultural exchange, when European porcelain symbolized refined taste and national pride. Housed in The Metropolitan Museum of Art's American Wing, it was acquired through generous gifts in 1994, underscoring its role in documenting elite dining customs. Visitors will appreciate how such everyday objects carried profound historical weight, blending artistry with the spirit of a young republic.