Vintners 1751 - 1761

This porcelain sculpture, Vintners, was produced in the mid-18th century by the Chelsea Porcelain Manufactory. Porcelain is a challenging material, requiring multiple firings at high temperatures, and the delicate modeling of these figures shows tremendous skill. The sculpture depicts two grape harvesters, rendered in exquisite detail. Note the fine floral patterns on their clothing, and the careful attention to their expressions. The whiteness of the porcelain enhances the vibrant colors, creating a sense of luxury. The figures are idealized, reflecting the romanticized view of rural life popular among the wealthy at the time. Yet the very material – porcelain – speaks to the global trade and industrial production that underpinned this lifestyle. It's a reminder that even seemingly innocent depictions can be deeply entwined with social and economic realities. The high level of craftsmanship elevates the material, challenging traditional distinctions between decorative and fine art.