Dancer with watch 1735 - 1745

The ‘Dancer with Watch’ was made by the Meissen Manufactory in the 18th century, during a period when Europe was captivated by porcelain artistry. This figurine offers a glimpse into the rococo era where aristocratic patronage shaped artistic expression. The dancer, with his elaborate costume and poised stance, embodies the performative aspects of courtly life and the complexities of gender identity. The watch he holds can be viewed as a status symbol. Simultaneously, it can be seen as a reminder of time’s passage and the fleeting nature of performance and life itself. Such works produced by the Manufactory served as luxury items which mirrored and influenced the tastes and aspirations of the upper class. With its delicate details and theatrical flair, the 'Dancer with Watch' prompts us to reflect on the relationship between art, identity, and the performance of the self.