Stand 1735 - 1745

This exquisite plate was made by the Meissen Manufactory, likely in the 18th century, from delicate porcelain. What makes this plate so special is the incredible skill required to produce it. The porcelain itself is a complex material, demanding precise control of the kiln during firing. But beyond that, observe the decoration, created with a painstaking overglaze enamel technique. These images weren't simply painted on; they were built up layer by layer, each firing fusing the colors to the surface. The imagery is a window into the world of maritime trade, with ships and harbors alluding to the global reach of European commerce at the time. Of course, the story of porcelain itself is interwoven with this history, as Meissen sought to replicate the prized ceramics of China. Consider the time and labor invested in creating this plate. It represents not just artistic expression, but also the social and economic systems that supported its production. Appreciating these factors allows us to move beyond mere aesthetics and understand the deeper meaning embedded within this object.