Needle case 18th century

This 18th-century Meissen porcelain needle case, now in the collection of the Metropolitan Museum of Art, features a hand holding an arrow. The case itself is decorated in a polychrome enamel technique, with a black and white dot pattern, interspersed with stripes. This intricate design is characteristic of the Meissen manufactory’s 18th-century production, known for its technical mastery and decorative flourishes. The needle case's small scale and delicate design speak to its intended use as a personal accessory, highlighting the artistry and craftsmanship valued by the elite of the period.