Large Meissen flower-encrusted potpourri vase in the Rococo-style

Large Meissen flower-encrusted potpourri vase in the Rococo-style
German, 19th Century
Height 72cm, width 32cm, depth 29cm
 
Crafted by Meissen, the oldest porcelain manufactory in Europe, this stunning potpourri vase is superbly decorated in the Rococo style.
 
The entire vase employs a pastel pink and blue colour palette – colours which are the hallmark of the Rococo style.  The vase is surmounted by a pierced lid, decorated with gilt Rocaille forms and applied with delicate porcelain flowers. Emerging from the centre of the lid is a towering porcelain bouquet, which contrasts a host of colourful blooms against dark green foliage.
 
The baluster-form body below is decorated with similar applied floral designs, creating visual cohesion between all parts of the vase. Framing cartouches of flowers, leaves, and fruit adorn both the front and reverse, with each piece hand-crafted and hand-painted to achieve an impressive degree of verisimilitude. Within each floral frame sits a painted scene: on the front, a typical Rococo scene of courtship is depicted, where a young man shows off a caged dove to a young woman. The reverse shows several painted flowers, which further reinforce the botanic theme.
 
Applied to each side of the vase are two handles, cast in the form of elegant branches. The handles are decorated with further porcelain flowers, and the left-side handle also features a charming putto who holds a flower in each hand. An additional putto can be seen on the foot of the vase, similarly rendered with blooms in hand. The pair of cherubs are superbly cast, and add further charm to the piece.
 
The underside of the body features the Meissen stamp of a pair of blue crossed swords.
 
The vase is placed upon an associated Meissen stand. Employing the same pastel colour scheme, the stand is decorated with similar gilt Rocaille designs, and also features the Meissen mark on the underside.
 
Expertly decorated with an effusion of pastel blossoms, this stunning piece is a fine example of Meissen craftsmanship.
 
Artist/Maker: Meissen Porcelain Manufactory