Title
Figural Group of a Groom with a Stallion
Creator
Date
c. 1850
Description
A porcelain figural group of a groom with a stallion (German, c. 1850) by the Meissen Porcelain Manufactory, Dresden, Germany, after an 18th century model by J.J. Kandler (1706-1775). The purple reins of the rearing white horse are held by a standing Black groom wearing a yellow robe/coat tied with a striped belt, a plumed turban, and red boots. Both figures stand on an oval base with a cropping of rocks and applied floral decoration. It is marked on the underside with two crossed blue swords and incised "A51X" and "62.
The use of 'Blackamoor' imagery in decorative art emerged as an artistic response to the Moorish occupation of Europe in the Middle Ages. The motif exoticizes the Black body and figures used in the form are often depicted in positions of servitude, personifying false notions of racial superiority. The use of Blackamoor imagery became increasingly popular in European luxury items in the 18th and 19th centuries as the countries there grew as colonial powers.
The use of 'Blackamoor' imagery in decorative art emerged as an artistic response to the Moorish occupation of Europe in the Middle Ages. The motif exoticizes the Black body and figures used in the form are often depicted in positions of servitude, personifying false notions of racial superiority. The use of Blackamoor imagery became increasingly popular in European luxury items in the 18th and 19th centuries as the countries there grew as colonial powers.
Cultural Origin
German
Medium
porcelain
Extent
9 3/8" x 8 1/2" x 4 1/4"
Collection
Source
Bequest of Mrs. Alletta Morris McBean.
Identifier
PSNC.8538
For more information about this item, please contact its owning institution.