The publication Courtly Pleasures explores how porcelain figurines and miniature landscapes
served as table decorations from the Baroque to early 19th century. Text in English and German.
Scenes of gardens and of love idyllic hunting parties picturesque farms and lifelike animal
figurines in porcelain were popular motifs in table decoration from the Baroque to the
beginning of the 19th century. These 'worlds in miniature' were intended to initiate
conversation among the table guests - and of course attest to the discerning taste of the
hosts. The decorative pieces were for all intents and purposes part of the furnishing scheme
and finished off the room’s interior as a total work of art down to the last detail. Central to
this was the artisanal sophistication and the perfect mastery of the latest techniques which
breathed new life into the miniatures. Following on from Courtly Companions: Pugs and Other
Dogs in Porcelain and Faience now Courtly Pleasures presents the most beautiful table
decorations produced by a variety of manufacturers all from the abundant treasures of a
southwest German private collection. Text in English and German.
