Knife c. 18th century

This knife was made by Meissen Porcelain Factory. Notice the blue floral motifs adorning its handle, these seemingly innocent flowers carry a weight of cultural memory. The blue flower is a symbol of longing, of the eternal search for the unattainable. Think of Novalis's "Heinrich von Ofterdingen," where the blue flower embodies desire and the mystical union with nature. This longing, this yearning, is not merely aesthetic; it touches upon the deepest layers of the human psyche. Now, consider how this motif has evolved. In medieval tapestries, flowers symbolized paradise and spiritual love; in later eras, they became emblems of romantic love and melancholy. Each context layers new meanings onto the symbol, transforming it yet preserving its core essence. The enduring appeal of this symbol lies in its capacity to evoke a sense of nostalgia, and the eternal quest for meaning. The flowers here are a reminder of the emotional and psychological power embedded in seemingly simple images.