Henry van de Velde (1863–1957) saw life itself as a Gesamtkunstwerk, which is why tableware such as plates, forks, and cups were predestined to be vehicles for the expression of his artistic vision. He attained celebrity with his “whiplash decor” in gold and cobalt blue for the Meissen porcelain manufacture. Inspired by ocean waves, the motif reveals the forceful line that was characteristic of van de Velde’s designs. The cutlery on display was designed for his home “Hohe Pappeln” in Belgium.