About this artwork
Seen as exotic, Islamic-style decorative motifs enjoyed great popularity in the United States in the 1880s, and William Shakespeare’s play Othello offered a famous example of a Moorish subject. Created by Rookwood Pottery, one of the earliest art pottery makers in the United States, this rare plaque may have been commissioned to commemorate a local production of the play. Alternatively, it might reflect the well-described popularity of Shakespeare in 19th-century America. The designer evoked the main character’s Moorish origins by inscribing his name in pseudo-Arabic script and using concentric bands of stylized foliate and calligraphic motifs reminiscent of Islamic architectural decoration.
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Status
- On View, Gallery 177
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Department
- Arts of the Americas
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Artist
- J. C. Meyenberg (Designer)
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Title
- Othello Plaque
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Place
- Cincinnati (Object made in:)
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Date
- 1884
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Medium
- Earthenware and glaze
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Dimensions
- Diam.: 40.6 cm (15 1/4 in.)
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Credit Line
- Through prior acquisition of Mr. and Mrs. Hugh J. Smith Jr.
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Reference Number
- 1996.367
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IIIF Manifest
- https://api.artic.edu/api/v1/artworks/145205/manifest.json
Extended information about this artwork
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