Plate

Art Historical Context

This elegant porcelain plate, created around 1875 by artist Félix Bracquemond in collaboration with Haviland & Co., exemplifies the luxurious ceramics produced in Limoges, France—a hub of fine porcelain manufacturing since the 18th century. Measuring just over 8 inches in diameter, this delicate piece (1 × 8 11/16 in.) weighs a mere 0.9 lb., showcasing the technical mastery of Limoges porcelain, prized for its translucency strength, and ability to hold intricate designs. Bracquemond, a pioneering French etcher and painter influenced by Japanese art (Japonisme), likely adorned the plate with dynamic horse motifs, as suggested by its tags. Haviland & Co., known for exporting innovative, artist-designed tableware to elite international markets, elevated everyday objects into art. This fusion of artistic vision and industrial precision reflects the era's Aesthetic Movement, blending functionality with ornamentation. A generous gift from George Haviland in 1923, the plate now resides in The Metropolitan Museum of Art's Modern and Contemporary Art department, highlighting the bridge between 19th-century craft and modern design sensibilities. Visitors will appreciate its subtle elegance, a testament to French cultural export during the Belle Époque.

About the Artist

Félix Bracquemond|Haviland & Co. · 1833–1914

French, Paris 1833–1914 Sèvres