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Unveiling the Awesome Meissen Porcelain – Dresden’s White Gold

meissen porcelain white gold saxony dresden Albrechtsburg

Story of Meissen(Meißen) Porcelain, the White Gold of Dresden

Augustus II the Strong, the Elector Prince of Saxony and the King of Poland was an avid patron of arts and decided that Dresden would be the cultural center. He also had a great liking for gold, real yellow ones. His great love, bordering on avarice, resulted in him recruiting a young alchemist work on the Goldmacher Tinktur or the Gold making formula to convert base metals to gold.

This post has been updated with latest content in July, 2023

Meissen Cathedral seems to grow out of Meissen Castle. This was where it all started. Meissen Manufactory. PC Saxony Tourism

You may say, oh not another of those stories but hold your horses. .

The alchemist, Johann Friedrich Böttger, worked on project gold for nearly six years. However, he did not succeed in producing the gold but he and his mentor, Ehrenfried Walther von Tschirnhaus, were successful in creating the white gold. While there may be a raging debate as to who brought white gold to Europe first, there is no debate as to how much it was valued during those days.

Augustus 2 the Strong as part of Princes Parade, Dresden Castle. Do you know why his horse is on two legs?

Yes, I am talking about porcelain. Porcelain was worth its weight almost as much as gold in those days and could be manufactured. When the Augustus saw this, he also saw profit in this process. He was excited and set up a factory in Meissen, Germany in 1710 and Meissen Porcelain Manufactory was born and is in business even today!

The location of the first factory was right inside the Albrechtsburg Castle itself and was its home for 150 years before the factory was moved out. Augustus chose Meissen because the small town had extensive local deposits of Kaolin, a clay ingredient needed for fine porcelain creation. The castle was quiet and isolated; a good place for work and creativity.

Saxonia and her 2 sisters in House of Meissen

Related Read
If you are wondering what else you can do in Dresden, read here.
If you are traveling in winter, Dresden is a great European destination in winter as well.

Also read about Golden Grass Handicraft in Jajpur, Odisha

After hearing the story we were now ready for the Meissen Porcelain Museum and the workshop too. Right at the entrance, greeting us was Saxonia, Saxony’s Icon specially created for the 25th anniversary of German reunification. Saxonia, who is often called the Statue of Liberty of Saxony, is perhaps the tallest free standing handmade Meissen porcelain sculpture decorated with 8000 handmade flowers on her dress. It weighs 800 kilograms, or over 1700 pounds.

Saxonia, Saxon Statue of Liberty, in a different light! Note the double-crossed-swords logo on the right

Abracadabra, the enchantment rooms

To see the magic we entered the first of the studios, where fresh white clay was being transformed, first into small balls of white then into various small parts that go into making a bigger object. Every part was handmade by creating the shapes required by hand or by using a mould or by a small potter’s wheel! The clay is mixed with other secret ingredients, as per a well-protected recipe and comes to this place ready to use.

Porcelain Moulding

Freshly molded many heads of Cherubs, ready for glazing.
Freshly molded head of a Cherub. The finished piece is lying on the base.
Freshly molded head of a Cherub. An artisan proudly demonstrates his trade at the House of Meissen
Small flower to be stuck on one of the figurines

Porcelain Finishing

Artist at work at House of Meissen (Staatliche Porzellan-Manufaktur)
The plate on the left is freshly painted after glazing, the one the right is after final baking where you can the color has changed to darker shades
What a spectacular and colourful design! House of Meissen

The first Meissen porcelain products produced successfully were gold decorations. Later, in 1723 multicolor enameled painting was introduced. Initially the Meissen artists created enamel porcelain paintings of oriental patterns. Then they expanded to detailed landscapes, animals, flowers and Chinese-inspired decoration.

Girls playing with ball, Work in progress. These are from designs and moulds from the 18th century  – BEFORE
Girls playing with ball, These are from designs and moulds from the 18th century. Note the transparency in the cloth.   – AFTER

You may also want to read about the Sand Art of Jordan.

We were told that the white clay, called Kaolin, are mined from the company’s own mines. While the artisan was busy putting out the parts to dry; she explained that it was the Kaolin which gives the final product, translucency and other ingredients are for fluxing, color, hardness and strength.

Artisan showing off her dexterous skills in creating small folds of cloth
Porcelain works at House of Meissen (Staatliche Porzellan-Manufaktur)

Around this time multiple pieces are joined together to make a whole figurine, if required. Once it is dry the pieces are smoothed and sent out for first firing in the kiln. It is fired for many hours. These pieces are then sent back to another set of artisans for under-glaze painting. A few basic designs may be painted by hand and then sent back to the kiln for glazing and firing again to bond glaze, paint and the base.

After the porcelain objects return from the glazing, more intricate designs are first sketched by pencil upon the surface and later painted using bright colors by the artists. Did I say before it was magic? The steadiness of the hands and the perfection in their skills were mind blowing, to say the least. Finally, the distinctive logo of Meissen Germany, two crossed swords in blue, are painted on reflecting the mark of excellence for over 300 years.

Evolution of logo of Meissen Porcelain. The very first logo at the top was the initials of Augustus the strong

Now the pieces are sent for final round of baking. This time to a temperature that melts the paint particles, softens the glaze there by fusing the paint onto the surface permanently. The paint may often change color during the multiple baking steps. It is the artists who have to use their experience and talent to visualize the final color while mixing the paint.

Whew!

Exhibition of Artifacts

Castle and Cathedral

Even Radiators were made of Meissen Porcelain to conserve and radiate heat while serving as a decoration
Radiators were made of Meissen Porcelain to conserve and radiate heat while serving as a decoration
Apostle St. Paul made of Porcelain
A beautiful skeleton made of porcelain shows the remarkable skill of Meissen artisans

House of Meissen Museum, Dresden

The museum transports us right through the 300 years of Meissen porcelain’s existence in a few minutes. From chamber pot to show pieces of varying sizes, from smallest possible to life-size Saxonia are all being created here? From dinner service to figurines to even radiators we saw a whole gamut of things that are churned out by a few hundred artisans and artists. All handmade.

Meissen Porcelain inspired by China
Tea Service made of Meissen Porcelain
Unicorn!
Meissen Porcelain artifacts
Cock-a-doodle-doo.
More artifacts
and more

We were later told that the bells of Meissen Cathedral were also made of Meissen Porcelain! We were open-jawed. A porcelain bell? How strong must it be? We always thought porcelain always broke when hit hard……no?

Some of the pieces were so beautiful and intricate that we were sure that, weight for weight, they would definitely be worth more than gold!

Procession of Princes, Dresden

Procession of all the Princes at night (Fürstenzug ). The original painting was replaced with Meissen Porcelain on the wall of Stable Courtyard of Dresden Castle.
Augustus 2 the Strong as part of Princes Parade , Dresden Castle
Procession of all the Princes Daytime (Fürstenzug ). The original painting was replaced with Meissen Porcelain on the wall of Stable Courtyard of Dresden Castle.

How to reach:

By car – Take B6 main road

By public transport – Train from Dresden to Meissen and then city bus “C” to Porzellan Manufaktur stop.

Tip: If you happen to be in Saxony during Christmas, don’t miss the Christmas Market in the House of Meissen. And guess what… the entrance is free! 😀

Useful Information about (Meißen) Meissen Porcelain Factory and Museum

Opening Hours

Monday to Sunday.
Summer Timings – 1 May to 31 Oct – 9 AM to 6 PM,
Winter Timings – 1 Nov to 30 Apr 9 AM to 5 PM

Ticket Price for Meissen Museum

Adults Eur 10,
Children and concessions – Eur 6,
Family (2 adults + 2 children) – Eur 23.
There are other ticket options when you combine this with Albrechtsburg.

Pro Tip: If you happen to be in Saxony during Christmas, don’t miss the Christmas Market in the House of Meissen. And guess what… the entrance is free! 😀

How to Reach Meissen Porcelain Museum and Factory

By car – Take B6 main road
By public transport – Train from Dresden to Meissen and then city bus “C” to Porzellan Manufaktur stop.

Where to stay in or near Meissen, Germany?

Since Dresden is just about 30 minutes from Meissen, it is best to stay in Dresden as you will find more options for all budgets and do the excursions to various places from Dresden.

Please Click here for accommodation options in Dresden, Germany

Tips, Tidbits and Snippets about Meissen and Meissen Porcelain

FAQ Frequently Asked Questions about Meissen Porcelain

Where is Meissen Porcelain Made?

Meissen Porcelain is crafted in the heart of Germany at Meissen Manufactory Porcelain (Porzellan-Manufaktur MEISSEN), where artistic mastery meets timeless elegance. Unleash your passion for perfection with the finest porcelain, born from centuries of tradition and innovation. Welcome to the epitome of sophistication. Meissen: Where Artistry Takes Form.

Can I order Meissen Porcelain online?

Yes, of course. Click here Meissen Online Shop

Is Meissen porcelain valuable?

Yes, Meissen porcelain is highly valuable due to its exceptional craftsmanship, historical significance, and limited production. Collectors and enthusiasts highly covet these exquisite pieces, making them sought-after and valuable in the market. No wonder it is called the “White Gold”

Is Meissen porcelain still made?

Yes, Meissen porcelain is still made today, maintaining its centuries-old tradition of excellence and craftsmanship. With a rich heritage and continued demand from collectors and connoisseurs worldwide, the production of Meissen porcelain remains vibrant and thriving.

Who owns Meissen porcelain?

Meissen porcelain is owned by the State of Saxony, Germany, through the Staatliche Porzellan-Manufaktur Meissen GmbH, ensuring its rich legacy and artistic heritage are protected and preserved for future generations.

What is Meissen Porcelain, and what sets it apart from other ceramics?

Meissen Porcelain is a type of fine porcelain that originated in the town of Meissen, Germany, in the early 18th century. It is renowned for being the first European hard-paste porcelain and is highly valued for its exquisite craftsmanship, translucent appearance, and detailed hand-painted decorations. Unlike soft-paste porcelain, Meissen Porcelain is fired at extremely high temperatures, making it more durable and capable of withstanding everyday use.

Are all Meissen Porcelain pieces hand-painted, and who were the artists responsible for their designs?

Yes, traditional Meissen Porcelain pieces are renowned for their hand-painted decorations. The factory employed skilled artists, including Johann Gregorius Höroldt and Johann Joachim Kaendler, who played a significant role in creating the iconic Meissen designs. Höroldt, in particular, was known for his brilliant use of cobalt blue underglaze decoration, while Kaendler was celebrated for his exquisite figurines and animal sculptures.

What are some of the most sought-after Meissen Porcelain designs or patterns among collectors?

Meissen Porcelain has a rich history of producing various sought-after designs and patterns. Some highly prized ones include the “Blue Onion” pattern, featuring a distinctive blue and white onion motif, the “Indian Flowers” pattern with a vivid mix of colorful floral arrangements, and the “Böttger Steinzeug” or red stoneware pieces, representing some of the earliest Meissen experiments in porcelain production. Additionally, Meissen figurines depicting allegorical or mythological scenes are also highly coveted among collectors.

How did the production of Meissen Porcelain influence the development of European ceramics?

The establishment of the Meissen Porcelain factory in 1710 had a profound impact on European ceramics. Prior to its founding, Europe relied on imported Chinese and Japanese porcelain, but the secret of hard-paste porcelain was not known outside of Asia. Meissen’s success in producing high-quality porcelain led to a surge in interest in porcelain manufacturing across Europe, inspiring other porcelain factories in countries like France, England, and Italy to emerge. Meissen’s techniques and designs became influential and served as a foundation for the development of fine porcelain traditions throughout Europe.

Have you been to Meissen Porcelain Museum? Or any other similar Museum? What was your experience?

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