Match pot
1867
Medium
porcelain
Measurements
16.4 × 9.4 cm diameter
Credit Line
National Gallery of Victoria, Melbourne
The Dr Robert Wilson Collection. Presented through the NGV Foundation by Dr Robert Wilson, Honorary Life Benefactor, 2001
© Public Domain
Gallery location
Not on display
About this work
The spiritual relationship that can be forged between dog and owner is captured in the design of this match pot. One side depicts a dog sitting in a kennel and reads ‘Our dog Tray in the flesh’, while the other shows the dog with a crown and wings ascending to heaven and reads ‘Our dog Tray in the spirit’. Christopher Dresser’s unique interpretation of the dog makes witty reference to Stephen Foster’s song of 1853 ‘Old Dog Tray’. The work also reflects contemporary Victorian spiritualist beliefs, which differed from the Chistian belief that animals don’t possess souls. This heartfelt tribute to a lost loved one demonstrates the devotional connection that can be forged between humans and dogs, as well as the everlasting impact of human-canine kinship.
Artwork Details
Place/s of Execution
Stoke-on-Trent, Staffordshire, England
Inscription
impressed (diagonally) in base u.l.: P
impressed in base u.l.: M
impressed (inverted) (diagonally) in base c.l.: (upside down V with semicircle through apex)
impressed (inverted) in base c.: MINTON
Accession Number
2001.317
Department
International Decorative Arts
This digital record has been made available on NGV Collection Online through the generous support of Digitisation Champion Ms Carol Grigor through Metal Manufactures Limited