Plate in the "Canton" Pattern
Item
Title
Plate in the "Canton" Pattern
Creator
Edward Colonna (des.)
Gérard, Dufraisseix & Abbot (maker)
Siegfried Bing (retailer)
Gérard, Dufraisseix & Abbot (maker)
Siegfried Bing (retailer)
Date
1902 (ca.)
Medium
Glazed porcelain
Credit line
Collection of David and Susan Cathers
Marks
On back, stamped in green "l'Art Nouveau Paris" surrounded by decorative borders.
Description
Stickley's purchases in Europe during the winter of 1902-3 show his affection for the lyrical lines of Art Nouveau and demonstrate a side of his aesthetic often hidden from view. While he advocated for “simplicity in all that pertains to the environment of material life under a democracy” his own tastes were more refined and tended toward the very preciousness he warned against. Stickley’s embrace of Colonna’s Canton pattern—itself a reference to the historical value of porcelain—reveals a side of him that is decorative, delicate, and elegant.
Set against the chestnut of one of the Hall Seats that stood originally on either side of the Dining Room fireplace we can start to better understand the range of colors and textures that pervaded Stickley's home, none of which is evident in the period photographs. Far from a somber, brown room that was cloaked in darkness, this was a lively space with splashes of bright color and textures from the ceramics, textiles, and metalwork to catch the eye.
Set against the chestnut of one of the Hall Seats that stood originally on either side of the Dining Room fireplace we can start to better understand the range of colors and textures that pervaded Stickley's home, none of which is evident in the period photographs. Far from a somber, brown room that was cloaked in darkness, this was a lively space with splashes of bright color and textures from the ceramics, textiles, and metalwork to catch the eye.
Provenance
Gustav Stickley (by 1903); thence by gift or descent to Barbara Stickley Wiles; gift to David Cathers (1978)