Saucer (part of a service) 1765 - 1775

This saucer was made at the Frankenthal Porcelain Manufactory, and is composed of the refined material, porcelain. Porcelain, also known as hard-paste, is a strong, vitrified, translucent ceramic. Its creation is attributed to the Chinese, and was later produced in Europe. This saucer's material influences its appearance, lending a smooth, delicate texture that feels refined to the touch. The decoration would have been painted by hand. The production of porcelain, especially in factories like Frankenthal, involved a complex division of labor. Different workers specialized in forming, firing, glazing, and decorating, each playing a crucial role in the final product. Porcelain’s association with luxury goods reflects not just the material's inherent qualities, but the social context in which it was produced and consumed. Considering materials, making, and context emphasizes the work involved in its production and allows for an appreciation of the rich blend of technique, artistry, and social history.