Vase with cover 1725 - 1735

Editor: We’re looking at a "Vase with cover," made around 1725 to 1735 by the Meissen Manufactory. It's crafted from porcelain and stands here in the Met. The decorative painting makes me think of a miniature theatre set. How would you interpret this object, considering its place in society at the time? Curator: It’s tempting to see it just as decorative art, but Meissen porcelain tells us so much about the socio-political landscape of 18th-century Europe. Think about it: porcelain production was a closely guarded secret, essentially a state-sponsored enterprise. Its value, exceeding even that of silver, fueled royal aspirations for wealth and power. Does knowing that shift your understanding of this vase? Editor: Absolutely. The fact that it was almost a national secret gives it a whole new level of importance, way beyond decoration. But how would that context influence the vase's imagery of people and birds? Curator: That’s where it gets interesting. The scenes reflect a romanticized vision of leisure and elegance, targeted at a specific aristocratic consumer. These weren’t just images, but carefully constructed messages, reinforcing social hierarchies and projecting an image of refinement. It's about creating and controlling narratives around wealth, status and taste, don't you think? Editor: So it's a luxurious propaganda piece, almost? Curator: Precisely! It served as a status symbol but also reinforced specific social and cultural values. I'm always amazed at the level of historical storytelling objects like this one offer. Editor: I will never see a porcelain vase the same way. Curator: That is wonderful. It’s amazing how historical context reshapes something seemingly simple.