Title
Tiled Planter
Date
c. 1880
Description
An Aesthetic Movement tiled planter (English, c. 1880) of rectangular form on a trestle stand with incised neo-Greco foliate gilt decoration and ebonized ring turnings supporting a fitted tile lined planter with a removable tin insert. The tiles, produced by Minton & Co and designed by Christopher Dresser (British, born in Scotland, 1834-1904), each depict a symmetrical design of two blue-tits perched on the fronds of bulrushes on either side of a stylized flower with a dotted border above and below. The short sides of the stand are centered with a gilt metal leonine mask with a ring pull held in its mouth. The turned legs and stretcher of the trestle base are accented with flower-head medallions.
Christopher Dresser was one of the most influential designers of the second half of the 19th century. Though having studied at the Government School of Design in London, Dresser originally began his professional career as a botanist. In 1856 he contributed a botanical plate to Owen Jones’ celebrated publication “The Grammar of Ornament.” Dresser took inspiration from the geometric structure of plants and in 1857 wrote an article for the Art Journal titled “Botany, as Adapted to the Arts and Art-manufacture.” After failing to be appointed Chair of Botany at University College, London, Dresser directed himself more into design. Works by Dresser were included in the 1862 International Exhibition in London, where he was first exposed to Japanese art, from which he took profound influence. In the mid-1860s Dresser became associated with Minton & Co for whom he created several designs. In addition to designing ceramics, Dresser also designed wallpaper, textiles, carpets, cast-iron furniture, metalwork, and established a retail store.
Christopher Dresser was one of the most influential designers of the second half of the 19th century. Though having studied at the Government School of Design in London, Dresser originally began his professional career as a botanist. In 1856 he contributed a botanical plate to Owen Jones’ celebrated publication “The Grammar of Ornament.” Dresser took inspiration from the geometric structure of plants and in 1857 wrote an article for the Art Journal titled “Botany, as Adapted to the Arts and Art-manufacture.” After failing to be appointed Chair of Botany at University College, London, Dresser directed himself more into design. Works by Dresser were included in the 1862 International Exhibition in London, where he was first exposed to Japanese art, from which he took profound influence. In the mid-1860s Dresser became associated with Minton & Co for whom he created several designs. In addition to designing ceramics, Dresser also designed wallpaper, textiles, carpets, cast-iron furniture, metalwork, and established a retail store.
Cultural Origin
English
Medium
glazed earthenware
oak
ebonized wood
metal
Extent
28.5" x 36.25" x 12.25"
Collection
Source
Gift of Mr. Ronald S. Kane, 2009.
Identifier
PSNC.12075
For more information about this item, please contact its owning institution.