Letter writer 1735 - 1745

This porcelain figure of a letter writer was made by the Meissen Manufactory, which began production in 1710. The figure's elegant pose and elaborate rococo-style table showcase the incredible plasticity of porcelain. To achieve this level of detail, liquid porcelain, or slip, was poured into plaster molds and then fired at a high temperature. After the initial firing, skilled artisans carefully hand-painted the figure with colorful enamels, highlighting the delicate floral patterns on his coat and the intricate gold detailing on the table. The resulting object is a testament to the skill of the Meissen artisans and the appeal of porcelain as a luxury material. Meissen porcelain was prized by the European elite. Its creation was tied to courtly patronage and fueled by the growing consumer culture of the 18th century. Figures like this one demonstrate how fine art and craft traditions converged within the context of elite consumption.