Teapot (part of a set) 1730 - 1745

This Meissen porcelain teapot, part of a set dating from 1730-1745, is a prime example of the Chinoiserie style that was popular in 18th-century Europe. The teapot's design features a whimsical scene of Chinese figures in a procession, highlighted by a gilded and painted cart. The scene is rendered in delicate detail, showcasing the skilled artistry of the Meissen Manufactory, one of the earliest and most influential porcelain manufacturers in Europe. The teapot, now part of the Metropolitan Museum of Art's collection, is a testament to the enduring allure of East Asian art and design on European aesthetics.