World Ceramics: How was it used?

As industry and the city became factors of modern life, Swedish social reformers called on artists to support the idea that all people, rich and poor, were equal. Artists could help by designing beautiful objects that everyone could afford. Beauty was seen not as a luxury, but as a necessity that improved people's character and lives. Beautiful surroundings caused one to work better and to feel better. Although some artists worked toward this end, in reality most Art Nouveau objects were too expensive for many people. Technological improvements in ceramic glazes and design were more likely to be applied to objects that had no function. Useful pottery was for the most part plain and simple. The middle and lower classes could only afford imitations of what the wealthy owned. Most Art Nouveau pieces were decorative rather than functional, and available only as expensive, exclusive items purchased by those of above-average means.  

 


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Key ideas.
Where does it come from?
What does it look like?
How was it used?
How was it made?
How big is it?
Who Knows?
Additional resources.