Caddy 1760 - 1770

This Caddy, made by the Nymphenburg Porcelain Manufactory, is a small container made of delicate porcelain. The process begins with fine clay, molded and fired at high temperatures to achieve its smooth, translucent quality. Note the hand-painted floral decoration, carefully applied with skilled brushwork. This kind of production reflects a specific moment in the history of luxury goods. Porcelain was highly prized, associated with wealth and refinement. While the form is simple, the material itself speaks of global trade, colonial exploitation, and complex networks of consumption. Consider the labor involved, from the mining of clay to the artistry of the painter. This object bridges the gap between craft and industry, reflecting both the skill of individual artisans and the organization of early manufacturing. The value we place on such an object involves not only its aesthetic appeal but also the story of its making, a story deeply entwined with the social and economic forces of its time.