Teapot 1718 - 1730

This teapot was made by the Meissen Manufactory in Germany, though the precise date is unknown. The manufactory’s whimsical design turns the practical object into a decorative sculpture. Note the avian form and the playful addition of the dog on the lid. This was a product for elites. The Meissen Manufactory was established in the early 18th century under the patronage of Augustus II the Strong, Elector of Saxony and King of Poland. Augustus was determined to produce porcelain that could compete with the highly sought-after wares from China and Japan. The manufactory was thus a state-sponsored project, intended to enhance the prestige and economic power of the Saxon court. The elaborate designs and high cost of Meissen porcelain meant that it was primarily purchased by wealthy aristocrats. To understand the world of the Meissen Manufactory, scholars often consult archival documents related to the Saxon court, trade records, and design books. The history of art is always contingent on social context.