Cup from a tea service for twelve 1807 - 1808

This porcelain teacup, part of a twelve-piece service, is a fine example of the decorative arts of the early 19th century. Created by French artist Christophe-Ferdinand Caron between 1807 and 1808, the cup features a detailed hand-painted depiction of a bird in flight against a landscape backdrop. The delicate brushwork and use of gold accents showcase the skill of the artist and the artistry of the period. This teacup, now housed in the Minneapolis Institute of Art, offers a glimpse into the elegance and refinement of 19th-century European tea-drinking rituals.