Centerpiece. Volkstedt, Rudolstadt, Germany. Circa Late 19th Century. Porcelain.

Centerpiece. Volkstedt, Rudolstadt, Germany. Circa late 19th century. Glazed porcelain.
This circular centerpiece rests on plain feet and presents a delicate tiered composition. The children are arranged with the help of a large stone and a tree trunk, one of them wearing a purple headband and holding flowers; below, four other children, also half-naked, hold glasses, flowers, etc. The figures and composition are clearly influenced by Neoclassical models. This same relationship explains the theme: this is a series of figures related to classical mythology, dealing with a pleasant and secondary theme (only a slight relationship with a bacchanal can be perceived by one cup presented), much appreciated in the rich interiors of the period to maintain the decorum required at the time. The factory signature is clearly visible at the bottom center, in blue tones, with a signature (Marion) "engraved" below. The Volkstedt Manufactory, located in Rudolstadt (Thuringia, Germany), was founded at the official request of Georg Heinrich Macheleid in 1760. The latter, who had worked at the Glücksthal glassworks, is said to have developed the porcelain formula alone, without any contact with the Meissen ceramists Ehrenfried Walther von Tschirnhaus and Johann Friedrick Böttger. The privilege was granted in 1762 by Johann Friederich (Prince of Schwarzburg Rudolstadt), specifying that it should be established at this location, near his court and under his personal direction. After several changes of ownership over the years, it is still in force today. -
Dimensions: 34x34x56cm