Hoopoe (Wiedehoppe) (one of a pair) 1741

This pair of porcelain hoopoes, made by the Meissen Manufactory in 1741, showcases the exquisite craftsmanship of German porcelain production. The birds are depicted perched on naturalistic branches with delicate foliage, showcasing the meticulous attention to detail that characterized Meissen's work. These figures would have been prized possessions for collectors of European porcelain, and their presence in the Metropolitan Museum of Art highlights their enduring beauty and historical significance.