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# Insect-Infested Dishware
Chitins Gloss by La Philie s Revoltingly Classy

By Meghan Young | Published 2014-01-07 | Art & Design
Source: Trend Hunter, https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/chitins-gloss-by-la-philie
References: [thisiscolossal](http://www.thisiscolossal.com/2014/01/vintage-porcelain-dishes-covered-in-hoards-of-hand-painted-ants/) & [laphilie](http://www.laphilie.com/)

The [porcelain dishware](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/monte-porcelain) that make up the collection titled Chitins Gloss by La Philie, a design studio founded by Evelyn Bracklow and based in Dortmund, Germany, has a bit of an icky problem. They appear to be infested by a colony of ants. Considering that the pieces are vintage, this may not come as a surprise to some. What will surprise people is the fact that the insects have been [realistically painted on](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/destree-x-cabana).

Hilariously and disgustingly deceptive, Chitins Gloss by La Philie brings a little touch of repulsion to otherwise [elegant dishware](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/tableware-collection1). The artist notes, "Fear, disgust, fascination and admiration: this very interplay of feelings constitutes the charm of the work. Furthermore, to me, the ants symbolize all the stories that any formerly discarded piece of porcelain carries with it."

## Trend Insights (Trend Hunter)

- Score: 3.3/10
- Popularity: 57% | Activity: 33% | Freshness: 8%
- Audience gender: 50% men, 50% women
- Primary generations: Gen Z, Millennial, Gen X
- Top markets: Europe

## Categories

[Trend Hunter](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends) > [Art & Design](https://www.trendhunter.com/artdesign) > [Design](https://www.trendhunter.com/design)

## Key Themes

### Why This Trend Is Growing

- **Disgusting Decor:** Creating designs that intentionally incorporate repulsive elements, such as insects infesting dishware, to add an unexpected touch of intrigue and shock value.
- **Realistic Illusions:** Using artistic techniques, like realistic painting, to create deceptive visuals that play with people's perceptions and challenge their expectations.
- **Embracing Imperfections:** Recognizing the beauty and storytelling potential in previously discarded or flawed items, and emphasizing their unique qualities in artistic creations.

### Industries Being Reshaped

- **Art and Design:** Exploring new avenues of artistic expression through unconventional and provocative designs that challenge traditional notions of beauty and functionality.
- **Home Decor:** Adding a twist of surprise and unconventional aesthetics to home decor products to cater to a growing demand for unique and conversation-starting pieces.
- **Ceramics and Porcelain:** Revitalizing the ceramics and porcelain industry by incorporating innovative techniques, like realistic painting, to create visually compelling and emotionally engaging products.

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- [Elegant Porcelain Tableware](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/porcelain-tableware.md)
