I chose to investigate the theme "Creating extraordinary versions of ordinary objects". My family has had this Mikasa platter for as long as I can remember and I was always apprehensive when someone wanted to use it because it is so pretty.  It is a work of art itself even though it does have a dual purpose as a serving tray. The detail and beauty that the swans are carved with is extraordinary and the ripples of water within the glass are difficult to do but they add to its feeling of serenity within the work.