Skip to main content
Advanced Search
"Uncle Tom" Plate
"Uncle Tom" Plate
"Uncle Tom" Plate

"Uncle Tom" Plate

Maker
Periodca. 1855-1860
Place MadeGein, France
MediumEarthenware
Dimensions7.75 in. (19.7 cm)
MarkingsTransfer printed on reverse, "GIEN / GEOFFROY / ETCIE" within a circle containing "MEDAILLE EXPOSITION 1844 / PORCELAIN OPAQUE"
SignedSigned "J. COPELAND" at cavetto border
ClassificationsEarthenware
Credit LineGift of Miss Elizabeth E. Reed, 1965
Object number1979.516.2
DescriptionA circular plate with scalloped rim, decorated with black transfer print, with an intricate scroll design around the border. The center image depicts a clock tower with a sign that reads "VILLE DU MANS." In the foreground, a young black boy peers up at a black man, identified as "TOM" with lettering across his chest, and says "MON ONCLE." Standing opposite is a male figure holding a crossbow, with a boat, face in the moon, and a goblet situated in front of him.
Curatorial RemarksThe plate's front imagry depicts a rebus, a type of puzzle consisting of letters and illustrations. The solution is printed on back: "LE ROMAN DE L'ONCLE TOM A ETE / LU DE TOUT L'UNIVERS," which translates to English as "The novel of Uncle Tom has been read by all the universe," in reference to Harriet Beecher Stowe's 1852 novel.
Collections