Vip access
Favourites
makers / Meissen
Meissen
Biography
Meissen Porcelain: Europe’s First Hard-Paste Porcelain
The story of Meissen porcelain begins in 1710, when Europe’s first hard-paste porcelain manufactory was founded near Dresden, Germany. Backed by Augustus II the Strong, Elector of Saxony and King of Poland, Meissen quickly became a center of artistry and technical innovation, setting a new standard for European ceramics.
For decades, European craftsmen struggled to replicate the fine porcelain imported from China and Japan. The breakthrough came with Johann Friedrich Böttger, an alchemist tasked with uncovering the secret formula. His early experiments led to a strong red stoneware, but it wasn’t long before he produced Europe’s first true porcelain. With this discovery, Meissen established itself as a leader in the world of luxury porcelain, inspiring other manufactories across Europe.
The earliest Meissen designs reflected the Asian porcelain collected by Augustus II. When Johann Gregor Höroldt took over as chief painter in 1720, he introduced a wider range of enamel colors and developed highly detailed chinoiserie scenes, blending Eastern and European styles. By the mid-18th century, Meissen’s dominance faced competition from the royal manufactory at Vincennes (later Sèvres), but its reputation for quality remained strong.
The 19th century marked a new chapter for Meissen. As tastes evolved, the manufactory embraced Rococo revival, Neoclassicism, and other historicist styles. Designers like Ernst August Leuteritz reinterpreted 18th-century patterns, creating elaborate figural groups, decorative vases, and elegant tableware. Deeply colored glazes, fine sculptural details, and gilded accents continued to define Meissen’s work, reinforcing its place as Europe’s most respected porcelain producer.
By the late 19th century, Meissen porcelain was a symbol of refinement, prized by collectors and European nobility alike. Today, pieces from this period remain some of the most sought-after, reflecting a blend of artistry, tradition, and technical mastery.
We invite you to explore our collection of 19th-century Meissen porcelain, where history and craftsmanship come together in beautifully made objects.
