Cup and saucer with the portrait of Philips, Count of Flanders c. 1867

This is a cup and saucer with the portrait of Philips, Count of Flanders, made by Königliche Porzellan Manufaktur. Immediately, the dominance of gold commands attention, sharply contrasted by the cool, pristine white of the porcelain reliefs and the saucer. The cup's handle is formed by a sculptural figure, seemingly suspended in a moment of delicate balance, adding an element of dynamism to the otherwise static form. The high-relief neoclassical figures circling the cup evoke a sense of historical grandeur, while the portrait hints at individual identity. These elements, arranged in such a structured manner, bring forth questions about representation and power. How do these classical allusions function within a contemporary context? How do they serve to ennoble or perhaps subtly critique the portrayed figure? Consider the interplay between utility and artistry here; a cup, typically a functional object, is elevated to a statement piece. Its value transcends mere function, inviting ongoing dialogue and interpretation.