Basket of cherries 1750 - 1760

This porcelain scent bottle, crafted by the Chelsea Porcelain Manufactory in the mid-18th century, depicts a charming scene of a basket overflowing with cherries. The intricate detail of the woven basket and the realistically painted fruit, along with the whimsical addition of a parrot perched atop the lid, exemplify the Rococo style's emphasis on playful ornamentation. The delicate nature of the piece, measuring only 3 3/4 × 1 3/4 in. (9.5 × 4.4 cm), suggests it was likely intended for personal use, reflecting the elegance and refinement of the era. This exquisite example of Chelsea porcelain, now housed at the Metropolitan Museum of Art, offers a glimpse into the artistry and craftsmanship of 18th-century England.