Large antique Schneeballen porcelain ewer by Meissen

Large antique Schneeballen porcelain ewer by Meissen
German, Late 19th Century
Height 62cm, width 37cm, depth 33cm
 
Expertly fashioned by the esteemed Meissen porcelain manufactory, this exquisite ewer showcases an elaborate design inspired by the beauty of nature. The Schneeballen (snowball) decoration, first introduced at Meissen in the early 1740s, became highly sought after among European aristocracy. Despite its widespread admiration, this elaborate motif is seldom seen on ewers, making this particular example an exceptionally rare and valuable find.
 
The gracefully curved body of the ewer is adorned with finely sculpted white blossoms, each delicately accented with touches of orange and purple. Small porcelain spheres, intricately encrusted with additional floral embellishments, are scattered across the surface, enhancing the intricate craftsmanship. Flowing green branches wind around the form, their striking hues adding depth and contrast to the composition. Two meticulously crafted porcelain birds bring a lifelike quality to the piece - one, a vibrant cockatoo with delicate pink and yellow plumage, perches elegantly on a branch, while another, painted predominantly in golden-yellow tones, sits poised on the opposite side.
 
The ewer’s S-shaped handle is designed to resemble ribbon-tied foliage, gracefully arching over the piece and crowned by an additional bird, watching over its companions below. The upper rim of the ewer is particularly striking, with the porcelain sculpted to appear as if gently rolled away.
 
Resting on a flared socle base, the ewer is further enriched with intricate detailing. Gilded accents embellish both the upper and lower rims, complementing the lavish gold highlights adorning the ewer’s lip. Additional porcelain birds, perched amid green branches, further enhance the naturalistic aesthetic of the piece.
 
The underside of the ewer bears Meissen’s iconic underglaze blue mark.
 
A near identical pair of ewers can be found in the esteemed collection of the Shugborough Estate in Staffordshire, managed by the National Trust.
 
A magnificent display of Meissen’s unparalleled porcelain artistry, this remarkable ewer stands as a testament to the refinement, elegance, and masterful craftsmanship of 18th century European ceramics.
 
Artist/Maker: Meissen