Pr. 19 C. Meissen Porcelain Birdcage Schneeballen Snowball Vase w/ Meissen Birds

Description

A Pair of 19th Century Meissen Schneeballen/Snowball Covered Vase with Birds, Bird Cage with One Bird, Flowers. Each vase is of large size, with a baluster form body densely encrusted with clusters of small applied flowers arranged to resemble snowballs. Green vine-like stems and leaves wind around the surface, adding depth to the composition. The bodies are raised on spreading circular bases decorated with the same clustered blossoms and foliage. Pierced sections with latticework detail are present, incorporating floral sprays and framing small enclosed bird cages, each containing a modeled bird within. Applied birds are positioned throughout the vases, with lifelike natural coloration. Among them, bright yellow orioles with black wings and orange beaks, gray and black small birds, and reddish-brown finches with striped wings are depicted perched on branches or atop the covers. The lids are removable and are likewise encrusted with blossoms and vines, surmounted by perched songbirds. The combination of encrusted floral ground, modeled foliage, and naturalistic birds creates a richly detailed surface characteristic of Meissen’s snowball style. Produced at the Meissen manufactory, these vases are in the manner of Johann Joachim Kaendler, the master modeler responsible for developing the Schneeballen technique. Each bears the Meissen overglaze blue crossed swords mark to the underside, confirming their origin. The scale of the pieces, together with the preservation of their applied elements, emphasizes the high level of technical accomplishment achieved in their production. The presence of applied bird cages containing small porcelain birds further distinguishes these vases, integrating architectural and figural details into the floral encrusted structure. This combination of elements, along with the rich application of colored glazes, demonstrates the manufactory’s expertise in modeling, firing, and decoration during this period. Germany, Circa: 1870

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