HAVILAND & CO., 1884 - 1889

A part of the intrigue and excitement surrounding the Hayes service were the vibrant colors and forms employed. In the ornamentation of this dessert plate, Theodore Davis created an almost trompe l'oeil effect. Featuring curved corners and soft edges the plate displays a dramatic red and orange surface intended to offer the effect of a setting sun as a central design of a Canadian snow shoe formed by a gold and net-like textured aesthetic extends just over the front and back rims, renders the illusion all the more realistic. For another example of this form, see Klapthor, p. 114.