Oil or vinegar cruet 1732 - 1742

Editor: This is the "Oil or vinegar cruet" made of porcelain by Meissen Manufactory around 1732 to 1742. It’s so flamboyant, a little ridiculous, really. I’m drawn to the odd scene it depicts, a smiling man riding a rooster—it's quite something. What's your take on it? Curator: Ah, yes! Utterly whimsical, isn't it? I always find it quite charming, in its own peculiar way. For me, this cruet embodies the Rococo spirit, its playfulness, its embrace of asymmetry and pure decorative joy. It's a far cry from functionalism, isn’t it? Porcelain itself was still relatively new to Europe then; an almost magical material to be molded into forms previously unseen, like this! Think of the cultural fascination it must have held! What do you make of that mischievous smile? Editor: I suppose I see arrogance? A certain disregard, maybe even an imperial dominance over the bird… which makes the detail of the chicken claws gripping the base almost ironic. I can't decide if he looks blissfully ignorant or subtly menacing! Curator: That tension is fascinating! Perhaps it's both, the ignorance and menace hand in hand. The vibrant colors aren’t accidental. This level of detail reflects immense skill and wealth and is definitely supposed to 'wow'. But beyond pure aesthetics, this is genre painting represented in three dimensions. A snapshot of idealized life during that period—exotic and flamboyant. Do you feel any of that now? Editor: I didn't, initially, but you’re right. Thinking of it as Rococo really clicks everything into place! Thank you for broadening my view! Curator: And you’ve made me rethink my rather glib first impression. I hadn't quite considered that imperial subtext until you mentioned it! Cheers!