Tureen c. 1759 - 1771

This tureen was produced by the Weesper porseleinfabriek, a porcelain factory, and is made of tin-glazed earthenware, decorated with delicate painted scenes. The choice of earthenware, rather than true porcelain, speaks to the economic realities of the time. Consider the labor involved: each piece meticulously shaped, fired, and hand-painted. The scenes themselves, idyllic landscapes, evoke a sense of luxury and leisure, a stark contrast to the lives of the workers who crafted the tureen. The painted earthenware surface mimics the smooth finish of expensive porcelain, but also reveals the complexities of class aspirations and industrial production. The tureen becomes more than just a functional object. It's a testament to the skill of the artisans who made it, and a reminder of the social and economic forces that shaped its creation. By understanding the materials, making process, and historical context, we can fully appreciate the object's beauty and meaning.