Saucer

The first Polish porcelain manufactory operated in Korzec in Volhynia for a little over forty years. It was put to an end by dramatic historical events connected with the outbreak and fall of the November Uprising. In this relatively short period of time, many interesting forms were created and various decorative patterns were designed, which are astonishing in their richness and inventiveness. Most often used, especially on tableware, were floral patterns and various kinds of floral and geometric ornaments. Landscapes and representations of birds appeared less frequently. Only a few vessels decorated with a painted motif of birds sitting on a branch have survived. These are cups and saucers, which suggests that this type of decoration appeared only on custom-made coffee and tea sets.

The bird depicted on the saucer is painted in some simplification, but given the shape and colouring of the feathers, we can conclude that it is a finch popular in Poland. The saucer is only a small element of the original set. There is no cup to match it, and it bears signs of damage, but it was nevertheless kept until it found its way to the museum. Even single examples of Korzec porcelain were protected in Polish homes as valuable patriotic souvenirs. During the period of national captivity, they resembled the last years of the independent Polish state.

Barbara Czajkowska