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Revolutionary Plate

CultureFrench
ManufacturedNevers, France
Period18th Century
Date1789-1792
MediumTin-glazed earthenware (grand feu faience)
DimensionsOverall: 1.7 × 22.9 cm (11/16 × 9 in.)
Markings"B" on bottom of plate
DescriptionWith the onset of the French Revolution, plates conveying political messages became a popular product of Nevers faience makers. This plate presents the symbols of the crown, standing for the monarchy, the swords, for the aristocracy, the crosiers, for the clergy, and the hearts for the common people. The crown placed above the three other social classes perhaps suggests the desire for a constitutional monarchy as opposed to absolutism.
Credit LineThe Pierre Karch and Mariel O'Neill-Karch Collection.
Object numberG14.4.15
Classifications
European Ceramics
Sub-classification
French Earthenware - Faïence
Status
On view
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