Satyr, Two Baby Satyrs and a Woman, Meissen Porcelain Factory

Archive Label 1999: Closely tied to the monarchy, the renowned Meissen Porcelain Manufactory began in 1712 with 23 working prisoners who made nearly exact copies of Chinese porcelain wares. Although originally made for the upper classes, by the 19th century these highly popular pieces were mass-produced for an international market. The "kitsch" sensibility evident in this figural scene has been resurrected in the late 20th century by artists such as Jeff Koons.