Cup (one of a pair) 1720 - 1745

This porcelain cup was created by the Saint-Cloud factory in France around the early 18th century. Its pure white surface immediately draws the eye, and the cup’s texture features an all-over pattern of raised, scale-like shapes, creating a tactile experience even from a distance. The formal structure of the cup is interesting: the repeated pattern introduces a sense of organic growth reminiscent of natural forms, juxtaposed against the rigid geometry of each individual scale. This combination plays with our perception, oscillating between the artificial and the natural. The monochrome palette further emphasizes the texture, inviting us to consider how surface and form create depth and interest in the absence of color. The cup, therefore, is not just a functional object but an exploration of contrasts and harmonies, reflecting a broader cultural interest in the relationship between nature, artifice, and the human senses.