Pair of lovers

Art Historical Context

Nestled in the European Sculpture and Decorative Arts at the Metropolitan Museum of Art, this *Pair of Lovers* (1781–85) hails from Italy's Le Nove Por Manufactory during the Parolin period. Standing just 6½ inches tall, this hard-paste porcelain figurine a tender moment between a man and woman, embodying the romantic themes popular in late 18th-century decorative arts. Acquired through the Rogers Fund in 6, it exemplifies Nove's reputation for exquisite ceramics from the Veneto region. Hard-paste porcelain, a prized European innovation mimicking fine Chinese wares, allowed Le Nove artisans to achieve remarkable translucency, durability, and intricate detailing. The manufactory, active from the 1770s, specialized in colorful, figural groups that graced bourgeois tabletops, blending technical mastery with whimsical storytelling. During the Parolin era, pieces like this often featured vibrant enamels and gilding, reflecting Italy's transition from Rococo exuberance to Neoclassical restraint. This delicate duo invites visitors to ponder the universal allure of love across cultures and centuries. As a snapshot of Nove's artistic legacy, it highlights how porcelain bridged utility and fantasy, turning everyday shelves into stages for human emotion. A true gem for lovers of intimate, handcrafted beauty!