Cup (part of a service) 18th century

This porcelain cup was made by the Meissen Manufactory in Germany. It’s decorated with a scene of people working, perhaps unloading goods from a ship. But what story does this cup tell us about its time? Meissen porcelain was a status symbol in 18th-century Europe, prized for its delicate beauty. This cup, with its depiction of laborers, offers a glimpse into the social and economic structures of the time. The scene is one of global trade and perhaps even colonialism, with figures that may be of African or Asian descent. In that time, goods and materials flowed into Europe thanks to the labor of others, often without their consent or fair compensation. Understanding this cup requires a deep dive into the history of trade, colonialism, and the rise of consumer culture. We can consult historical documents, trade records, and studies of the Meissen manufactory itself to learn more about the world this object inhabited.