Saucer 1715 - 1735

This saucer was made with porcelain and gilding by the Meissen Manufactory. Produced in Germany, the image on the bowl recalls classical Greek scenes. By the 18th century, porcelain was highly sought after for its beauty and as a symbol of wealth and status. Meissen, established in 1710, was one of the first European factories to successfully produce it, breaking the porcelain monopoly previously held by China and Japan. The choice of classical imagery suggests the cultural aspirations of the European elite in the 1700s, who connected themselves to the legacy of ancient civilizations through art and collecting. This bowl not only reflects wealth, but also the owners desire to associate themselves with a refined and learned cultural identity. Analyzing objects like this saucer reveals a wealth of information about the political economy and the cultural values of the time. By looking at factory records, trade routes, and decorative motifs, we can better understand the society that produced and consumed such luxury goods.