Designs for Two Porcelain Vases 1765 - 1790

These designs for two porcelain vases were made at an unknown time, by an anonymous artist. Both designs display complex scenes, painted onto a porcelain surface. The processes involved would have been intricate, demanding a high level of skill. Porcelain requires precise firing temperatures, and the decoration on the vases would need to be carefully applied. Notice the level of detail in the painted scenes, and the delicate floral and geometric ornamentation that would require skilled artisans and a division of labor, with different individuals specializing in each aspect of production. The design reflects a culture of luxury and refinement, tied to aristocratic taste. The presence of Chinoiserie further indicates that these vases were intended for a European market, where Asian motifs were highly fashionable. The vases themselves speak to international trade and exchange, bridging the gap between East and West. By considering the materials, processes, and cultural context in which these vase designs were created, we gain a richer understanding of their significance and meaning.