Milk jug with putti on clouds 1785

This milk jug, decorated with putti on clouds, was made in Ansbach, Germany, a town known for its porcelain production. Objects like this were status symbols, reflecting the wealth and taste of their owners. Drinking vessels such as this also played a central role in social rituals such as tea parties, where social etiquette, class distinctions, and cultural values were subtly reinforced. The depiction of putti, or cherubic figures, floating on clouds is typical of the period, reflecting an interest in classical mythology and decorative exuberance. Such scenes of putti or cherubs were often intended to evoke a sense of innocence, beauty, and the carefree indulgence of the upper classes. The study of court records, historical documents, and material culture offers insight into the social and cultural context of this porcelain, revealing how art and design were intertwined with the complex dynamics of 18th-century European society.