Meissen Porcelain Desk Set

This Meissen porcelain desk set features figural “Gallant” scenes.

Description

• The Tray: The suite is unified by an ornate porcelain tray with an asymmetrical, scalloped rim and high-relief gilt-edged rocaille scrollwork.
• Vessels: The set includes a matching inkwell and sander (pounce pot) with a perforated lid. Both are designed in a globular form that complements the tray’s curves.
• Decoration & Color: The pieces are finished in a vibrant canary yellow background. This bold color was a specialty of the Meissen factory and served as a high-status backdrop for fine miniature painting.

The Figural Scenes

This set is decorated with hand-painted “fête galante” scenes in the style of Jean-Antoine Watteau.

• Subject Matter: The central reserves on each piece depict 18th-century courtiers in lavish dress—men in frock coats and women in wide-hooped gowns—engaged in leisurely pursuits like conversation and courtship in a parkland setting.
• Detailing: These miniatures are framed by delicate gilded “four-lobed” borders (known as vierpass), which separate the narrative scenes from the yellow background.

Attribution

• The Mark: Underneath the tray one finds the Meissen Crossed Swords in underglaze blue.

Condition Note: Repairs to the tray.