Saucer 1724 - 1725

This porcelain saucer was produced by the Meissen Manufactory, established in Germany in 1710, the first to produce porcelain outside of China. The piece is adorned with an elaborate coat of arms, likely commissioned for a member of European nobility. Royal symbols such as the crown and lions evoke power and authority. Coats of arms such as these were visual declarations of lineage and status, tools used to legitimize power in a highly stratified society. Notice the delicate craftsmanship. The gold filigree around the rim and the detailed painting within the crest emphasize the wealth and sophistication associated with the ruling classes. While initially these objects would have served a functional purpose, their value as status symbols far outweighed their utility. They reflect the complex relationships between art, power, and identity. The piece serves as a reminder of the emotional weight objects can carry.