Covered Vase c. 1770

This covered vase was made by the Worcester Royal Porcelain Company. Porcelain is a challenging material to work with, requiring careful attention to detail at every stage, from the preparation of the clay to the final firing in the kiln. The vase’s decoration is typical of the late 18th century, reflecting an era of global trade and exchange. Notice the intricate hand-painted floral motifs, and the complex process of layering colors and glazes to achieve the final result. The very intense cobalt blue would have been extremely expensive at the time. The decoration would have been applied by skilled workers, whose expertise was essential to the success of the company. Such porcelain manufactories were very much products of their time. They reflect the development of early capitalism, relying on highly specialized labor to create luxury goods for an expanding consumer market. Appreciating this vase involves recognizing the historical context of its production, and the many hands that contributed to its creation.