Saucer (part of a service) 1765 - 1775

This delicate porcelain saucer was created by the Frankenthal Porcelain Manufactory. Its smooth, reflective surface is adorned with a central motif of a bird perched on a tree, painted in soft, muted tones. The composition invites the eye to wander around the circular form, punctuated by delicate floral sprigs scattered across the white ground. The design embraces a form of pictorial formalism, where the subject is secondary to the arrangement and balance of shapes and colors. The central image, while representational, serves as a focal point, with the surrounding sparse decoration creating a visual rhythm. The texture of the paint is subtly evident, adding depth to the overall effect. Ultimately, the saucer embodies a cultural fascination with nature, reimagined through a lens of artistic refinement. Its value rests not just in its utility, but in its careful arrangement of design elements, offering a glimpse into the aesthetic values of its time.