Cup and saucer 1815

This cup and saucer were made at the Vienna Porcelain Factory, which operated from 1719 to 1864. Porcelain is created by firing a mixture of kaolin clay and petuntse at high temperatures, resulting in a vitrified, translucent material. What makes porcelain special is its capacity for delicate, detailed decoration. Here, we see hand-painted floral motifs, a popular choice for porcelain of this period. Notice, too, the gilded surfaces, created by applying a thin layer of gold, adding to the set's luxurious feel. The process of creating porcelain like this involved skilled labor, from the potters who shaped the clay to the artists who painted the designs. Considering the time and skill involved, objects like these were luxury items, enjoyed by the upper classes. Appreciating the artistry and labor helps us understand porcelain's place in a broader history of design, craft, and social class.