Tea Bowl and Saucer 1750 - 1760

This tea bowl and saucer, produced by the Worcester Royal Porcelain Company between 1750 and 1760, showcases the company's early attempts at mimicking the style of Chinese porcelain. The delicate floral and bird motif painted in vibrant enamels on the white porcelain body, known as "Imari" style, reflects the fascination with Asian aesthetics during this period in Europe. This piece, currently housed at the Art Institute of Chicago, is a fine example of the transition in taste towards chinoiserie, the artistic imitation of Chinese styles.