Plaque
ca. 1890–1900
Medium
Earthenware, enamel, and gold
Dimensions
Diam. 18 in. (45.7 cm)
Classification
Plaque
Culture
American
Department
The American Wing
Museum
Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, NY
Credit
Gift of Emma and Jay Lewis, in memory of David Goldberg, 2001
Accession Number
2001.765
Tags
Art Historical Context
This exquisite plaque, crafted by American artist James Callowhill 1890–1900, exemplifies the opulent decorative arts of late 19th-century America. Made from earthenware enhanced with vibrant enamel glazes and accents of gold, the 18-inch-diameter circular showcases masterful ceramic techniques. The use of enamel provided a glossy, jewel-like finish, while gold detailing elevated it from utilitarian pottery to a luxurious wall ornament, reflecting the era's fascination with combining craft and fine art. At its center, intricate motifs of birds perched amid blooming flowers, lush leaves, and s...