Tureen with cover in the form of a pigeon

Art Historical Context

This delightful tureen with cover, shaped like a plump pigeon, was crafted around 1750–60 by Paul Hannong and Johann Wilhelm in Strasbourg, France. Made of faience—tin-glazed earthenware 13¼-inch-long piece exemplifies the vibrant ceramic tradition of the region. The Hannong family, renowned faience producers, elevated Strasbourg pottery to international fame with their colorful, molded forms during the Rococo era, blending whimsy with functionality. Faience's glossy tin glaze allowed for bold polychrome decoration and intricate detailing, mimicking costlier porcelain while remaining accessib...