It was a principle of Art Nouveau that all areas of life, from the simple things used everyday to works of art, had value as beautiful objects. The Art Nouveau movement attempted to break down barriers between the fine arts and the so-called minor arts like ceramics and embroidery. In Hungary, Art Nouveau shaped national identity by giving Hungarian character to all aspects of life, from architecture and painting to household furnishings.

Unfortunately, noble goals aren't always satisfied in real life. This highly decorative vase was outside the financial reach of many. Wealthy people in Hungary and throughout Europe collected such art objects as status symbols to adorn the interiors of their houses. The splendid glazes Vilmos Zsolnay had developed made these items much too valuable and expensive for everyday use.

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