Spanish
(Manises, Valencia)
Charger with Hispano-Moresque Decoration
1525
-
50
lusterware
2 x 19 in diameter
5.08 x 48.26 cm
Arthur and Margaret Glasgow Fund
85.31
Decorated with intricate arabesque geometric and floral patterns, this platter features the coat of arms of the family for whom it was made. People of the medieval period likened the rosy color of the luster on chargers like this one to gold, making Valencian lusterware a more readily available substitute for golden platters. Although these platters were functional pieces used to serve food at feasts, they more often were decorative objects displayed to proclaim the family’s name and wealth.
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