Plate

Art Historical Context

This elegant 16th-century plate from Valencia, Spain, exemplifies the pinnacle of Hispano-Moresque ceramics a vibrant tradition blending Islamic artistry with European tastes. Crafted from tin-glazed and luster-painted earthenware, it an impressive 2½ × 15¾ inches (6.4 × 40 cm), suggesting it served as a grand serving platter rather than everyday dishware. The tin glaze provided a smooth, white surface ideal for intricate designs, while luster painting—a metallic oxide technique firing gold or copper hues—created a shimmering, iridescent effect that mimicked precious metals. Valencia's potter...