Covered Sugar Bowl

Isaac Broome, 1876

MEDIUMPorcelain
DIMENSIONS4 7/8 x 3 5/16 in. (12.4 x 8.4 cm)
LOCATIONThe Metropolitan Museum of Art
COLLECTIONThe American Wing
CULTUREAmerican
CREDIT LINEPurchase, Mr. and Mrs. H. O. H. Frelinghuysen Gift, 1983

Stop to appreciate this elegant porcelain sugar bowl, a delightful example of Victorian decorative art that blends everyday utility with intricate, nature-inspired sculpture.

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ABOUT THIS WORK

This covered sugar bowl, crafted from delicate porcelain, invites a closer look at its intricate details. The creamy white surface is adorned with raised, sculpted forms, suggesting a natural world of plants and perhaps even small creatures. Though functional, its elaborate design elevates it beyond a mere serving piece, reflecting the Victorian era's fondness for decorative arts that blurred the lines between utility and sculpture. Created in 1876, the year of America's Centennial Exposition in Philadelphia, this piece embodies a period of artistic experimentation and a renewed interest in decorative ceramics. It showcases the delicate artistry possible with porcelain, a material that was highly prized for its smooth texture and ability to capture fine detail.

LOOK CLOSER

What to Notice

1

Observe the delicate, almost translucent quality of the porcelain.

2

Look for the subtle, raised plant motifs across the surface and lid.

3

Notice the sculptural handle and finial, adding to its ornamental feel.

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Audio Deep Dive

Stop to appreciate this elegant porcelain sugar bowl, a delightful example of Victorian decorative art that blends everyday utility with intricate, nature-insp…

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THE ARTIST
Isaac Broome 1836–1922 · United States

Canadian-born sculptor who shaped America's Centennial with patriotic porcelain busts and decorative reliefs.

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