Tureen with Cover
c. 1880
Medium
Electroplated silver and ebony
Dimensions
20.3 × 31.1 × 23.5 cm (8 × 12 1/4 × 9 1/4 in.)
Classification
metalwork
Department
Applied Arts of Europe
Museum
Art Institute of Chicago
Accession Number
102988
Rights
Public Domain
About this artwork
This tureen and the accompanying ladle, starkly modern and devoid of ornamentation, were produced in two sizes in both silver and electroplated silver; the set became one of Christopher Dresser’s most well-known designs. Dresser was heavily influenced by Japanese metalwork, which he began importing into London in 1879 following an extended visit to Japan. Both the look of the silver brackets that grip the tureen’s handles and the angled stem of the ladle are indebted to Japanese designs.
About the Artist
Christopher Dresser · 1834–1904
Christopher Dresser (1834–1904) was one of the most innovative and prolific designers of the nineteenth century, widely regarded as a pioneer of industrial design long before that discipline had a name. Born in Glasgow, Scotland, he trained at the Government School of Design in London, where he studied under leading educators committed to improving the quality of British manufactured goods. He wen...