Dancing Woman 1743 - 1753

This figurine of a dancing woman was made by the Meissen Manufactory, using delicate porcelain. Porcelain’s history is deeply rooted in craft and alchemy. The secret of ‘true’ or ‘hard paste’ porcelain, made using kaolin clay and petuntse, was a closely guarded secret in China for centuries, but eventually rediscovered in Europe in the early 18th century. Meissen was the first to produce it in Europe, and was supported by royal patronage. The production of porcelain objects like this involved a complex division of labor. Some workers mixed the clay, others formed the figure with the help of molds, others fired it in kilns, and others hand-painted the colorful details. This division allowed for mass production, and the democratization of luxury goods, reflecting a shift towards modern modes of consumption. This figurine is a testament to the artistry of Meissen's artisans, as well as a reminder of the social and economic context in which it was created. It challenges the distinctions between fine art and craft.