Vase c. 1730

Curator: Today, we're observing a stunning porcelain vase crafted around 1730 by the Du Paquier Porcelain Manufactory. Editor: Ah, yes! Immediately, I'm struck by the whimsy. It's so light and buoyant. Like it could float away if you let it go. Does that make sense? Curator: It does. Note the delicate, flowing lines typical of the Rococo period, combined with this restrained ornamentation. It lends a kind of formal lightness to the whole object. Editor: It’s got a bit of heraldry going on, right? The shield. Is that the Du Paquier family crest, or something connected to the Habsburgs? All those leaves and decorative crown-like forms, so evocative! Almost as if it’s teeming with secrets... Curator: The inclusion of a coat of arms beneath a crown signifies a link to nobility, yes. It’s surrounded by stylized foliage—though less about mimicking specific leaves and more a pattern motif. Editor: The colors seem so unusual for the era; pale violet and ochre mixed together. It is really an incredible and strange vase, don’t you think? Curator: The ceramic provides an immaculate canvas for those colors to realize themselves. They emphasize the curves, almost toying with asymmetry, even within its rather conventional form. I am curious about the firing process used for ceramic during that period, this might affect color variation from batch to batch? Editor: A touch chaotic, wouldn't you agree? Almost like a mischievous breeze ruffled its feathers a bit. Makes you want to peek inside, see what secret blossoms it's hiding. Curator: Yes, the Du Paquier Manufactory captured that fleeting spirit, with great skill, especially for a piece created nearly three centuries ago. Editor: In conclusion, this vase makes one realize just how fragile and temporal all the fancy adornments of life may ultimately be.