Knife c. 1775

This knife, created by the Meissen Porcelain Factory, features a striking interplay between functionality and ornamentation. The knife's gleaming, golden blade contrasts sharply with the porcelain handle adorned with delicate blue floral patterns, which evokes a sense of luxury. The structure of the knife merges utility with visual appeal, where the coldness of a cutting tool is offset by the warmth of organic forms and colours. The handle’s composition invites semiotic interpretation. The floral motifs are carefully arranged to guide the viewer's eye, with the deep blue hues set against the stark white of the porcelain to create a sense of depth and richness. This pairing destabilizes the traditional separation between art and utility. Consider how the artist uses these elements to invite the viewer to reconsider the cultural codes that separate art from the everyday. The knife thus transforms from a mere utensil into a decorative object that prompts a discussion on value, taste and aesthetic experience.