Xenia Sova
Classic Decorative Dishware:
The Authentic Israeli Dinner Set
Ceramic, 2023. Courtesy of the artist
“The Authentic Israeli Dinner Set” was inspired by blue and white
porcelain products that incorporate folk and botanical motifs and are
traditionally produced in China, the Netherlands, Russia, and elsewhere.
In the set before you, Sova combines the classic plate style with elements
of Israel’s culture and landscape that stood out to her as a new immigrant
and are associated with Israeli folk culture: rooftop solar water heaters,
flip-flops, stackable plastic chairs (often used in brawls), and portable
charcoal grills. This combination offers a new, Israeli context – for the
blue-and-white colors of the illustrations as well.