Theekop c. 1774 - 1778

This delicate theekop, or tea bowl, was made at Loosdrecht. It's formed from fine porcelain, meticulously cast and fired, then adorned with painted decoration. The bowl’s surface is divided into zones of color, including a striking purple band. Within this, sepia tones depict a seated figure in a pastoral landscape. Note the contrast between the smooth, cool surface of the porcelain and the warmth of the painted imagery. Porcelain itself has a fascinating history, originating in China and then becoming a coveted luxury in Europe. The establishment of porcelain factories like Loosdrecht was driven by a desire to replicate this precious material, and a source of national pride. Each stage of porcelain production involved skilled labor, from the sourcing of raw materials to the precise application of glazes and decoration. This theekop encapsulates a complex web of material culture, class aspirations, and skilled craftsmanship.