Cup

Art Historical Context

This delicate cup from the late 18th century exemplifies the vibrant porcelain production of La Courtille, a Paris factory celebrated for its colorful, figurative ceramics. Crafted in hard-paste porcelain—a-fired, translucent material perfected by European makers to rival Chinese imports—the cup stands just under 4 inches tall, making it a charming piece for intimate gatherings or display. Produced during the final years of the Ancien Régime, it reflects the opulent decorative arts scene in pre-Revolutionary France, where factories like La Courtille catered to affluent tastes with whimsical, narrative scenes. The cup's surface likely features hand-painted motifs of men, women, and dogs, evoking lively everyday moments or genre scenes popular in Rococo and early Neoclassical styles. These earthy polychrome enamels, applied over glaze and fired at low temperatures, showcase the factory's mastery of bold colors and intricate details, blending functionality with artistry. Such wares were prized for their durability and affordability compared to silver, symbolizing France's innovative response to luxury demand. Gifted to the Metropolitan Museum of Art in 1902 by Alfred Duane Pell, this cup offers a window into Parisian craftsmanship at its peak, inviting visitors to appreciate how everyday objects became canvases for cultural storytelling.