During the late 19th century the Meissen manufacture produced finely decorated tableware, vases and figures with applied flowers which became very desirable but only the wealthy could afford. Smaller manufacturers in the area copied Meissen but were never able to achieve the same finesse and detail. This cup and saucer has applied forget-me-not flowers and painted bugs and butterflies. Painted bugs and butterflies were added to any decoration in the 18th century where a spec of dust settled on the piece during firing, which disguised the fault with added charm. It became so popular that the Meissen manufacture added bugs and butterflies to 19th century ware that came out of the kiln unblemished.
Country of Manufacture: Germany
Manufacture: Meissen
Year of Manufacture: c 1880
Dimensions: Diameter of cup 8 cm, Diameter of saucer 13.5 cm, Height of cup 5 cm
Price: £585

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