Anonymous

This simple but charming ceramic bowl, possibly once paired with a lid, is part of the Ira Thompson Collection—an eclectic collection of objects connected to the Cayman Islands. Acquired by the Cayman Islands Government in 1979, this collection became the foundation of the Museum's holdings.

While the bowl itself was likely imported from England and a commonplace item, its uniqueness lies in its decoration. Hand-painted with a simple floral pattern, it was likely adorned locally, reflecting the aesthetic sensibilities of the community. The layering of the decoration suggests that it may have been painted more than once, perhaps being retouched over time.

Such creative adaptations of imported goods were a common practice, transforming ordinary objects into personalized works of art. Several similar examples exist in the Museum’s collection, showcasing the everyday ingenuity and aesthetic traditions of Caymanian life—an often-overlooked form of domestic creativity.