Antique Baroque style porcelain tureen with cover by Meissen

Crafted by Meissen in the late 19th century, this exquisite porcelain tureen is lavishly embellished with Baroque style ornamentation. The original model was designed in 1738 by Johann Joachim Kändler (1706–1775), Meissen’s most celebrated modeller, adding significant historical value to the piece. Kändler created the design for Maria Josepha of Saxony, the mother of French kings Louis XVI, Louis XVIII, and Charles X.

The tureen features a bulbous, pierced porcelain body, richly gilded and adorned with an array of intricate details. Female busts serve as handles, each facing in opposite directions, while the central panels on both sides display large, hand-painted cartouches with serene landscape scenes. These are flanked by applied garlands of flowers and drapery swags, supported by cherubic putti, which flow seamlessly into the handles, inviting admiration from every angle. The piece rests on four elegant, scrolled feet.

Its equally ornate cover complements the body’s design. Topping the lid is a multicoloured crown resting on a cushion, held aloft by putti. Positioned above each handle are cartouches depicting hunting scenes, while the rim of the lid features four smaller panels illustrating courting couples. Between the putti, additional cartouches display the coats of arms of Saxony and Poland.

Remarkably, the underside of the lid is also adorned with hand-painted enamel floral decoration, an extraordinary detail that demonstrates the exceptional skill and dedication of Meissen’s artisans. Even areas not typically visible are treated with the same level of artistry and care.

The underside bears the iconic underglaze blue crossed swords mark for Meissen. 

Celebrating an important historical design, this tureen is a desirable addition to one’s collection of European porcelain.