Gardener's companion (one of a pair) 1745 - 1757

This pair of porcelain figurines, titled “Gardener’s Companion,” were made by the Höchst Manufactory in Germany between 1745 and 1757. These figures depict a man and a woman, likely representing a couple, tending to a vine. The figures are depicted in the midst of their work, demonstrating the importance of agriculture in 18th-century European life. The intricate details of their clothing and the naturalism of the vines, suggest the skill of the Höchst Manufactory, which was known for its fine porcelain and high quality. These figurines are a prime example of the Rococo style, which emphasized playful ornamentation and naturalism. They are currently housed in the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City.