Harlequin with jug c. 1738
johannjoachimkandler
minneapolisinstituteofart
ceramic, hard-paste-porcelain
2d character
3d sculpting
germany
animated character
ceramic
hard-paste-porcelain
3d character model
character design
child character design
technology juxtaposition
abstract character
3d character modeling
3d concept
This porcelain figurine, titled "Harlequin with Jug", was created in 1738 by Johann Joachim Kändler, a renowned figure in the history of Meissen porcelain. Kändler, known for his mastery in depicting characters from Commedia dell'arte, captures the essence of Harlequin, a mischievous and acrobatic jester. Dressed in his iconic multicolored costume and holding a jug, Harlequin appears to be mid-performance, adding a dynamic element to the figurine. The figurine's intricate details and vibrant colors highlight Kändler's exceptional skill in porcelain modeling.
Comments
The Commedia dell' Arte was a traveling improvisational comedy troupe originating in Italy around 1560. The masked characters probably have their roots in Venice's Carnival and became well known throughout Europe. Harlequin, usually portrayed with a red and black mask and diamond patterned clothing, was one of the best known of the group. J.J. Kändler began designing figurines of the stock characters at Meissen in the 1730s, further spreading their popularity through porcelain.
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