Peacock 1741

This porcelain peacock was crafted by the Meissen Manufactory, a groundbreaking institution in early 18th-century Germany. Meissen was the first European factory to successfully produce hard-paste porcelain, a closely guarded secret previously mastered only in China. The elaborate peacock speaks to the cultural fascination with exoticism and luxury that characterized the European courts of the period. The peacock, with its vibrant plumage and symbolic association with royalty, served as a potent emblem of status. Meissen porcelain, itself a costly commodity, catered to the desires of the elite, who sought to display their wealth and taste. The manufactory was directly supported by royal patronage, reflecting the intertwined relationship between art, power, and economic ambition in that era. Understanding this requires research into the economic and political structures that allowed for the establishment of institutions like Meissen. The peacock is more than just a beautiful object; it’s a window into the social values of its time.