Oil pot 1730 - 1745

This Oil Pot was made by the Meissen Manufactory in the 18th century. As porcelain was developed in Europe, it became an important medium for art and trade. During this period, aristocratic tastes shaped artistic production. Items like this pot reflected the refined aesthetics and wealth of the elite. Looking at this object, one might consider its function not just as utilitarian, but as a symbol of status. The floral decorations and delicate design suggest a world of leisure and privilege. The spout, formed by a human-like face, gives an impression of power and privilege. It suggests the oil it serves may be a source of wealth, such as that produced by colonialism. How does our appreciation of this object shift when we consider its role within a system of social hierarchy? While beautiful, this oil pot is an artifact of a complex history, intertwined with power, trade, and social class.