Artwork

Bol cu picior

Bol cu picior, by Unknown, 1850
Bol cu picior, by Unknown, 1850

Bol cu picior is a photography by Unknown. It dates from 1850 and is held in the collection of the National Museum of Art of Romania. The object is a white ceramic bowl distinguished by a blue‑black decorative band that encircles its midsection.

About this work

Overview

The piece is displayed on a plain white surface against a dark background, emphasizing its simple silhouette and restrained decoration.

The object is a white ceramic bowl distinguished by a blue‑black decorative band that encircles its midsection. Its form tapers from a broad opening to a narrower base, and the ornamentation combines linear and floral elements, including a leaf‑and‑flower motif near the lower rim. The piece is displayed on a plain white surface against a dark background, emphasizing its simple silhouette and restrained decoration.

Subject & Meaning

The painted band merges geometric patterns with stylized botanical forms, a common visual language in traditional folk ceramics. Such motifs often convey notions of fertility, protection, or seasonal cycles, though the specific symbolism can vary by regional craft tradition.

Technique & Style

The bowl is hand‑formed from earthenware and fired to a white slip that serves as a ground for the cobalt‑based pigment. The design is applied with a fine brush, producing crisp lines and repetitive dot work characteristic of hand‑painted vernacular pottery.

History & Provenance

The bowl is part of the collection of the Museum of Ethnography, indicating its relevance to the study of everyday material culture. Its acquisition details are not specified, but the object likely originates from a European folk‑ceramic tradition where blue‑on‑white decoration was prevalent.

Context

Ceramic vessels of this type were traditionally used for serving or storing food, and their decorative bands often reflected communal aesthetic preferences rather than elite artistic trends. The bowl’s modest scale and utilitarian shape suggest it was intended for domestic use.

Farfurie de formă tronconică, adâncită, cu buza foarte înaltă; pe fund are găuri pentru agățare. Este smălțuit în interior și exterior (buza). Decorat cu motive geometrice: linie; motive fitomorfe; motive florale. Cromatică: fond: alb; motive: verde; maro; albastru.
Farfurie de formă tronconică, adâncită, cu buza foarte înaltă; pe fund are găuri pentru agățare. Este smălțuit în interior și exterior (buza). Decorat cu motive geometrice: linie; motive fitomorfe; motive florale. Cromatică: fond: alb; motive: verde; maro; albastru., Unknown

Artist & collection

Artist

Unknown

entity whose identity is not known

Frequently asked questions

Who painted Bol cu picior?

Bol cu picior was painted by Unknown in 1850.

Where can I see Bol cu picior?

Bol cu picior is held by National Museum of Art of Romania.