Tankard 1730 - 1740

This tankard was made by the Meissen Manufactory, a porcelain company established in Germany in the early 18th century. The scene painted on the side of the tankard reflects a deeply classed society. While porcelain was still a relatively new and rare material in Europe, its consumption was largely confined to the aristocracy and the affluent merchant classes. Meissen porcelain, in particular, became a symbol of status and refinement, adorning the tables and display cabinets of those eager to flaunt their wealth and taste. The landscape featured, perhaps a romanticized view of Dresden or another European city, speaks to the grand tours undertaken by the elite. These journeys were rites of passage, meant to expose young aristocrats to the art, architecture, and social customs of the continent. It's easy to imagine this tankard as a souvenir, a tangible reminder of one’s travels and elevated social standing. The tankard is not just an object of utility but a vessel brimming with the socio-economic narratives of its time.