Pitcher 1833

This pitcher was created by the Manufacture nationale de Sèvres, using porcelain and enamel. The smooth, cool surface of the porcelain is decorated with gilded patterns. The rich cobalt blue background emphasizes the intricate floral motifs and bands of ornamentation. The handle and rim are gilded, adding to its luxurious feel. Sèvres was one of the most important porcelain factories in Europe, known for its high-quality materials and skilled artisans. Each piece involved a complex division of labor. Some workers prepared the clay, others cast the forms, and still others applied the decoration. The gilding itself would have been a specialist task, requiring precise application and firing. This pitcher represents a fusion of art, craft, and industry. It reminds us that even seemingly decorative objects can be deeply embedded in social and economic systems. By understanding the materials, making process, and context, we can fully appreciate its cultural significance.