King Vulture

myminifactory

This incredible vulture sculpture is a masterpiece from the extensive porcelain menagerie commissioned by Augustus the Strong, Elector of Saxony. He had ordered this impressive collection for his 'Japanese Palace' in Dresden, a project that would leave an indelible mark on ceramic history. Over 600 life-sized animals were initially planned, with at least 458 being brought to life. The Meissen factory began working on the project in 1730, just two decades after they had become the first European factory to successfully produce porcelain in the Chinese manner. Augustus had specified that the animals should display their natural colours, which could typically be achieved through the use of enamels. However, the factory technicians deemed it too risky to subject the largest models to the high heat of an enamel firing. Instead, they chose to partly paint them with bright, unfired pigments. Unfortunately, such colours rarely survive, as they tend to fade over time and are often completely removed. This King Vulture model exists in three distinct versions: some crouching, others with their heads lowered, and still others standing upright. These variations were introduced by the skilled 'repairer', who assembled the separately moulded parts of the model prior to firing, likely driven by a desire for variety. Artist/Maker: Johann Joachim Kändler, born 1706 - died 1775 (model maker) Christian Reinow, born 1685 - died 1749 (lacquerer) Andreas Shiefer (craftsman) Meissen porcelain factory (manufacturers) Gallery location: Europe 1600-1815, Room 3, case CA15. Courtesy of the Victoria and Albert Museum, London