Harlequin with pince-nez 1740 - 1746

This porcelain figure of a Harlequin was made at the Meissen Manufactory. Harlequin is a commedia dell’arte character known for his checkered costume, but this one is special – he’s wearing pince-nez spectacles. To make this, porcelain paste was molded, fired, and then meticulously hand-painted with enamel colors. The smooth, glossy surface shows the incredible skill of Meissen artisans in controlling the kiln’s intense heat. Notice the details: the tiny playing cards on his sleeve, the gold trim, and the delicate ruffles. These aren’t just decorative flourishes; they reflect the high status of porcelain in the 18th century. Porcelain was a luxury good, and figures like these were collected by the elite to show off their wealth and taste. The figure’s intricate decoration and refined execution speak volumes about the social and economic context in which it was made, and porcelain’s role in solidifying a culture of collecting.