Cup with a rooster c. 1809

This delicate cup with a rooster was crafted by the Kaiserliche Porzellanmanufaktur. The rooster, a symbol of vigilance and courage, has crowed through the ages. In ancient Rome, it was a symbol of Mars, the god of war, embodying martial spirit and aggression. Yet, this association harkens back even further, echoing the cockfights of ancient Greece and Rome, where the rooster's bravery in battle was admired. The laurel wreath motif, with its diamonds, is no accident. A symbol of triumph and honor, these wreaths hearken back to ancient Greece, where they crowned victors in athletic games and military heroes. Consider how this symbol has transformed over time: from adorning the heads of emperors to embellishing porcelain cups. One can't help but see how these archetypes embedded within our collective memory are a potent force, speaking to us on a profound, subconscious level. Thus, the rooster and laurel wreath continue their journey through history, forever evolving and adapting within the ever-changing tapestry of human culture.