Shell basin
ca. 1730
Although modeled in the scallop-shell form that became so popular in the rococo period, this basin still exhibits the symmetrical style of the baroque. Its designer, Kirchner, a court sculptor before he came to Meissen in 1727, had previously been occupied with a commission of baroque sculpture ordered by Augustus the Strong for the courtyard of his palace, the Zwinger. At Meissen, Kirchner experimented with porcelain vases and figures on a grand scale, many of which exhibit a myriad of cracks. Also large for its time, this basin was nevertheless manageable.
Hard paste porcelain
2 3/8 x 18 x 15 in. (6.03 x 45.8 x 38.1 cm)
Gift of Martha and Henry Isaacson in honor of the museum's 50th year
83.222
Photo: Paul Macapia