Cup (part of a service) 1765 - 1775

This porcelain cup, part of a service by the Frankenthal Porcelain Manufactory, features a bird perched on a branch, a motif steeped in symbolism. Birds, across cultures, often represent the soul, freedom, or a connection between the earthly and divine realms. Consider the ancient Egyptian Ba, a bird embodying the soul's mobility after death, or the dove, a symbol of peace and the Holy Spirit in Christian iconography. The presence of this avian figure invites a psychoanalytic exploration—perhaps echoing collective memories of spiritual transcendence and liberation. The enduring appeal of this image, rendered on such an everyday object, lies in its ability to tap into our primal emotions, triggering a sense of wonder, and inviting us to reflect on our place within the natural order. The symbol has a cyclical, enduring quality, resurfacing across various epochs, reflecting humanity’s perpetual quest for understanding and connection.