Stand (part of a service) 1761

This is a porcelain stand, part of a larger service, made by the Meissen Manufactory. While the exact date of its creation is unknown, the Manufactory was founded in 1710, at a time when porcelain was often associated with wealth and aristocratic taste. Consider how porcelain in the 18th century was not just about function, but also about displaying status. The floral design, carefully painted, hints at the influence of Asian aesthetics, a popular trend in European art at this time. This stand, with its delicate floral pattern, might evoke a sense of refinement. But it's worth noting that pieces like this were often part of a larger set, used in social rituals. It prompts us to reflect on who had access to such luxury items and how they were used to reinforce social hierarchies. This stand invites us to reflect on the relationship between beauty, social class, and cultural exchange.