Harlequin dancing 1763 - 1764

These are three porcelain Harlequin Dancing figures, crafted by the Meissen Manufactory in the 18th century. The eye is immediately drawn to the figures' dynamic poses and the intricate patterns adorning their costumes. The use of line, shape and colour creates a sense of movement, suggesting a lively performance frozen in time. Each figure embodies a playful interpretation of the Harlequin character. The artists capture the essence of Commedia dell'Arte through exaggerated gestures and expressive faces. The triangular or diamond patterns, though seemingly decorative, function as a semiotic system. They represent the Harlequin's multifaceted nature—his wit, agility, and trickery. The Harlequin's costume, fragmented and rearranged into geometric designs, mirrors a world where traditional structures are destabilized. As you observe these figures, consider how the Meissen Manufactory, playing with form and motif, turned porcelain into a stage for exploring shifting cultural values.