Cup and saucer 1725 - 1750

This delicate porcelain cup and saucer were crafted at the Saint-Cloud factory during the late 17th to early 18th century. Notice the subtle, raised floral decorations. In this era, floral motifs signified not just beauty, but also ephemerality, a reminder of life's fleeting nature. But the cup and saucer are not just vessels; they carry a deeper cultural memory. The flowers here echo similar motifs found in ancient Roman frescoes, where flora symbolized growth and prosperity. Like in Botticelli's "Primavera," where flowers burst forth, celebrating fertility and renewal. Even earlier, the Egyptians adorned tombs with floral garlands. The enduring presence of these symbols reveals a deeply rooted human connection to the natural world, a connection that transcends time and space. These motifs have evolved, shifting from religious to secular contexts, yet they still evoke powerful emotions, and stir feelings of nostalgia, comfort, and a longing for simpler times. The image becomes a potent symbol, engaging viewers on a subconscious level and reminding us of the cyclical nature of life and art.