After accidentally leaving her dirty plate on the table overnight, German artist Evelyn Bracklow (La Philie) was inspired to create a collection of old-style porcelain crockery accented with ants painted crawling over them.

This collection, called Chitins Gloss, features thousands of meticulously handpainted and life-sized ants. The artist takes at least three hours to finish each piece. 

Each piece can be considered a work of art as all the ants are personally drawn by Evelyn bracklow. 

While some might be put off by the sight of realistic-looking ants conquering a plate or bowl, you cannot deny that these pieces make great conversation starters. 

The porcelain crockery too have been golden lovely gold borders, accentuating the elegant nature of the classical style. 

Some of the pieces also come in more contemporary shapes.

The natural way the ants gather around the vessel is part of the what makes them look so real. 

Owners of these crockery might want to take a double look when they leave them in the sink overnight, since the possibilities of having real ants crawling around them are possible too. 

These teacup and saucer sets are perfect for the modern city home. 

Expect to see your guests break out into exclamation when they find ants at the bottom of their cup after drinking. 

A close-up of the crockery reveals the intricate nature of the artist’s painting technique. 

Some pieces also feature ants crawling over more ants in an overlapping effect. 

The resulting look adds depth and a rather artistic feel to the piece. 

You might even see the ants engage with the design on the plate, such as these ants trying to grab at the painted cherries.

Designs by Evelyn Bracklow, Chitins Gloss. Photo by Ingrid Raab.