8. Decorative Arts (12-20th c.)

The Habáns or anabaptists were a protestant sect originating from Switzerland, who wished to imitate the early Christians’ way of life and lived in a commune. They were everywhere persecuted for their ideals that clashed with the notions of contemporary society. The Habáns engaged especially in making ceramics, which they decorated, in a highly individual style, with vegetal motifs in blue and yellow. They avoided the representation or human and animal figures. Their works were also made to order: this plate was produced for Iacobus Cornides. It was acquired from the Ipolyi collection, together with several similar works.