Hunters 1740 - 1750

The Meissen Manufactory, established in 1710, crafted this porcelain sculpture titled "Hunters." During the 18th century, hunting was a pursuit closely linked to social status, restricted to the nobility and landowners, thereby symbolizing power and privilege. These figurines, made of delicate porcelain, often reflect the societal values and the romanticization of pastoral life favored by the aristocracy. Consider the gender dynamics presented in this scene. The woman is seated, central, yet her agency is nuanced. Is she an active participant in the hunt, or is she a passive observer, embodying the decorative role often assigned to women of the period? The male figure, standing and leaning towards her, extends a gesture that could be interpreted as either assistance or a display of control. These figures offer a glimpse into the lives and values of the elite during the 18th century, inviting us to consider the complexities of identity, gender, and class in the context of art.