Pair of orange stands (part of a service) 1733 - 1746

These stands were crafted at the Meissen Manufactory, established in Germany in 1710, showcasing the luxurious porcelain that became synonymous with European aristocracy. The design embodies the opulent tastes of the 18th century. A period marked by the rise of elaborate table settings as demonstrations of wealth and power. Notice the playful combination of marine motifs – fish supporting a floral bowl. This reflects the era’s fascination with the natural world, filtered through a lens of aristocratic refinement. These stands weren't just functional; they were statements. They underscore the importance of material culture in understanding social hierarchies and the aspirations of the elite. Extensive archival research into the Meissen Manufactory’s records, along with studies of 18th-century dining practices, help us interpret these objects as more than mere decoration. They are key to understanding the values of the society that produced them.