Artwork
tányér

tányér is a print by Unknown. It dates from 1850 and is held in the collection of the Ethnographical Museum of Transylvania. The object is a circular plate featuring a painted scene of a bird perched on a flowering branch.
About this work
Overview
The object is a circular plate featuring a painted scene of a bird perched on a flowering branch. The composition includes a green‑brown bird, red and yellow foliage, and a rim adorned with orange‑green butterflies and a black zigzag border. The surface shows signs of age, such as fine cracks and areas where the bright pigments have softened.
Subject & Meaning
The central motif presents a natural tableau, combining avian and floral elements that suggest a celebration of garden life. The surrounding butterflies and decorative border frame the scene, emphasizing movement and decorative richness typical of folk or decorative plate motifs.
Technique & Style
The design appears to be hand‑painted, with pigments applied directly onto the ceramic surface. Over time, the glaze has developed a network of fine cracks, known as crazing, and some colors have faded, indicating frequent use or exposure to light.
History & Provenance
Physical evidence of wear, such as the cracked glaze and faded areas, points to the plate’s long service life, likely in a domestic setting. No specific maker’s marks or documented origin are provided, limiting precise attribution.
Context
Circular plates with painted natural scenes were common in various regional folk traditions, serving both functional and decorative purposes. The inclusion of stylized birds, flowers, and butterflies aligns with motifs found in traditional ceramics across Europe and Asia.
Legacy
While the plate’s exact cultural lineage remains unclear, its preservation offers insight into everyday decorative arts and the aesthetic preferences of the community that used it, illustrating how utilitarian objects also conveyed artistic expression.
Artist & collection
Museum
Ethnographical Museum of Transylvania
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