Saucer c. 18th century

This saucer was made by the Worcester Porcelain Works, sometime after 1751, using a blend of skills both artisanal and industrial. The smooth, white body is porcelain, a technically challenging ceramic valued for its delicacy and translucence. Notice the molded pattern under the glaze; this was achieved by pressing soft clay into a carved mold. The blue decoration was applied by hand, likely by trained painters working in a factory setting. The cobalt blue is painted under the glaze; requiring the object to be fired at a high temperature. This method ensured the design's durability, a practical consideration for everyday use. Porcelain production, though partly mechanized, relied heavily on skilled labor. The division of labor, with specialized roles for mold makers and painters, demonstrates the intersection of craft and industry. This saucer, with its blend of molded form and hand-painted decoration, speaks to a time when factory production was still deeply entwined with artisanal skill. By focusing on the making, we appreciate how this object bridges the worlds of fine art and functional design.