Magpie (one of a pair) 1733

This magpie was crafted at the Meissen Manufactory, likely in the 18th century, using porcelain. Porcelain is a tricky medium: you have to fire it just right, and then paint it with metallic oxides that transform into a spectrum of colors during a second firing. The magpie's crisp black and white plumage, its dynamic pose with beak open, and the delicate flowers at the base all showcase the extraordinary level of skill achieved at Meissen. This manufactory was the first in Europe to master the production of true hard-paste porcelain, a closely guarded secret previously known only in China. But remember, the term “manufactory” implies a division of labor. While a master modeler may have designed this magpie, many hands would have been involved in its production. From mixing the clay to painting the final details, each worker contributed to the final object. So, when you look at this exquisite sculpture, consider not only its aesthetic beauty but also the complex social and economic system that made its creation possible.