Indoor Eden: Victorian Jardinières

Indoor Eden: Victorian Jardinières

During the Victorian era (1837–1901) houseplants became more accessible to the masses. Plant enthusiasts adored hardy species such as parlor palms (Chamaedorea elegans) and the cast iron plant (Aspidistra elatior), given its common name for its ability to tolerate dismal conditions, such as low light and gas-lit homes. Simultaneously, a passion for ferns of all kinds, referred to as “pteridomania,” reached a fever pitch. Commonly referred to as jardinières from the French word for “female gardener,” ornamental pots and plant stands served as essential components of indoor décor. Larger potteries, like Minton in Staffordshire, as well as smaller art pottery studios, such as Bretby and Ault Pottery in Derbyshire, supplied the demand for wares. Indoor Eden will showcase an array of English jardinières, pedestals, and vases, while also exploring historical topics, from Wardian cases, or the first terrariums, to fern fever and floriography. These objects and stories combine to explain some of the origins of our love of houseplants, decorative planters, and the continued desire for green spaces today.

[image]
Dragon jardinière  c. 1890
Bretby Art Pottery
Woodville, Derbyshire, England
ceramic, glaze
Collection of Brian D. Coleman
L2025.0501.016