Cup and saucer

Březová, Bohemia, 1830–1840

Glazed, painted and gilt porcelain.

H: 8.5 cm

Markings: “FR” imprint

UMP 7226

Oval inscribed with “Freundschaft” on a blue background painted with symbols of music and friendship and decorated with matte and glossy gold ribbons. Porcelain objects had not yet become commonplace in the first half of the nineteenth century, and their prices were not negligible. This cup from the Pirkenhammer manufactory represents an example of Biedermeier souvenir production, with the luxurious nature of porcelain pairing with a perfectly executed form and artistically rendered decoration to make it an exceptional souvenir which might have commemorated pleasant moments spent with pleasant company. It might have also contained a specific inscription or a message or information in the language of flowers or mythology, thus embodying the connection between friends or lovers.