Earthenware bowl and platter, decorated with scenes of childbirth, Urbino, Italy, 1501-1600
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Scenes of childbirth and nursing newborns were common on Renaissance Italian ceramics. This tin glazed earthenware set is from Urbino in Italy. It is called an ‘accouchement’ (meaning childbirth) set. The shallow bowl is illustrated with two women washing a baby while another carries a bowl to a bed-ridden female, presumably the mother. The platter shows a mother with a swaddled baby. On the reverse of both pieces is a cherub surrounded by clouds. Accouchement sets served foods to pregnant women during their pregnancy or after childbirth. These sets consisted of several items that would fit together when not in use. Birthing scenes eased the fears of expectant mothers by depicting positive birthing images.
Object number:
A642932
Related Themes and Topics
Glossary:
Glossary: bowl
A round deep basin used for food or liquid
Glossary: obstetrics
A branch of medicine dealing with the care of women. This care occurs during pregnancy, childbirth, and the period of recovery from childbirth.