Vase with cover 1710 - 1735

This porcelain vase with cover was made at the Meissen Manufactory. With its crisply molded leaves and delicate pink roses, this vase exemplifies the technical virtuosity of Meissen porcelain. The material itself, hard-paste porcelain, was famously difficult to master; its formulation was essentially a closely guarded trade secret, and the process required multiple firings at high temperatures. This was more than just a demonstration of skill; porcelain had become a valuable commodity in the 18th century, associated with wealth and aristocratic taste. The very act of shaping and painting porcelain was labor-intensive, involving teams of specialists. From the initial preparation of the clay to the final touches of enamel paint, each stage demanded precision and expertise. The vase reflects a complex interplay of material properties, skilled craftsmanship, and consumer desire. Looking at this vase, we appreciate how material and making are key to understanding an artwork's full meaning, and how it challenges traditional distinctions between fine art and craft.