Small plate with a caricature of Prince Metternich

Chodov, Bohemia, after 1848

Glazed and painted porcelain.

Diameter: 17.8 cm

Markings: “V. P.” imprint

UMP 17047

Painted plate inscribed “Der alte „System“stürzt auf dem Renwege am 13. März 1848.” The caricature responds to Prince Metternich’s resignation from the post of Foreign Minister after 13 March 1848, when several dozen people lost their lives in armed clashes between citizens and the army in Vienna. Revolutionary fervour in the capital forced Emperor Ferdinand I to dismiss Chancellor Metternich, who went into voluntary exile in England.

Similar response in the period press.