Beaker 1720 - 1735

This porcelain beaker was made by the Meissen Manufactory, likely during the 18th century, and exemplifies the "chinoiserie" style popular at the time. During this period, Europe's fascination with Asia, particularly China, led to the creation of fanciful, often inaccurate, representations of Asian life and culture. These images, seen on objects like this beaker, tell us less about the East and more about Europe's own projections and desires. The scenes depicted here—people in vaguely Asian garb amidst exotic flora and fauna—were not based on reality, but rather on imagination and hearsay. It's crucial to consider these depictions in light of the history of colonialism and trade. These romanticized images of Asia served, in many ways, to soften the realities of exploitation and power imbalances that defined Europe’s relationship with the East. While seemingly innocuous, objects like this beaker played a role in shaping and perpetuating stereotypes that had very real consequences. Today, we can look at this beaker and appreciate its craftsmanship, but also reflect on the complex history it embodies.