Couple Dressed as Persians 1755 - 1765

These porcelain figures depicting a Couple Dressed as Persians were made by the Mennecy manufactory. The appeal of the exotic was heightened in France through diplomatic and commercial ties with the Ottoman Empire. During the 18th century, French aristocracy became fascinated with Ottoman culture, often conflating Persian and Turkish customs. This interest was reflected in fashion, literature, and the arts, where "Turkish" or "Persian" styles were highly sought after. These figures, with their stylized clothing and idealized features, catered to this fascination. Mennecy, as one of the earliest porcelain factories in France, played a significant role in shaping aristocratic taste and consumption. It is through understanding the historical context and the institutional structures, that one can begin to unpack the complex relationship between art, culture, and society. Research into archival documents, fashion plates, and diplomatic records can further illuminate the cultural dynamics at play in the creation and reception of such objects.