Chinese Couple 1732 - 1742

This pair of porcelain figurines, titled "Chinese Couple," were created by the Meissen Manufactory in Germany between 1732 and 1742. The figures, depicting a man and woman in traditional Chinese clothing, are a testament to the European fascination with Asian culture during the 18th century. The Meissen Manufactory, known for its high-quality porcelain and intricate decoration, captured the exoticism of the East with detailed floral patterns and colorful birds. The figures' exaggerated features and humorous expressions add to their charm, making them popular decorative pieces for European collectors. The figures, now housed at the Metropolitan Museum of Art, exemplify the artistic trend of Chinoiserie, a European artistic style inspired by East Asian art and culture.