Craftsmanship
MEISSEN brings together traditional craftsmanship, creative design, and the highest level of technical precision. From model making and mold production to casting and throwing, glazing, and the complex firing processes, every piece of porcelain passes through a wide range of highly specialized steps. In every department—from the color laboratory and the painting studios to the kiln hall—experienced artisans and artists ensure that simple porcelain body is transformed into a unique, high-quality work of art, elaborately handcrafted and produced with care.
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Kaolin & the MineKaolin, a fine white clay, is the essential raw material for making white porcelain. For more than 250 years, it has been mined at MEISSEN's own kaolin mine in nearby Seilitz.. -
Mold ArchiveThe MEISSEN Mold Archive preserves around 700,000 molds spanning more than 300 years of craftsmanship. It is the world's oldest and largest collection of molds for porcelain sculptures and tableware. -
Swords and MarksSince 1722, the Crossed Swords - Europe's first Trademark - have guaranteed the authenticity and quality of MEISSEN porcelain. To this day, each piece is marked by specially trained sword markers.
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Color LabSince 1720, the MEISSEN color laboratory has produced its own underglaze and overglaze colors. Around 300 colors are part of today's standard palette, while historic recipes are carefully preserved. -
Throwing & CastingWhether thrown, cast, or molded, every piece of MEISSEN porcelain is shaped using traditional craftsmanship. Each technique is carried out with exceptional precision, just as it has been for centuries. -
Hand Assembly & DetailingDuring hand assembly and detailing, MEISSEN porcelain takes its final shape. Individually molded parts are assembled by hand, while intricate details and sculptural decorations are carefully refined. -
Underglaze PaintingApplied before glaze firing, underglaze colors fuse with the porcelain at temperatures of up to 1,400°C (2,552°F). Only a few pigments, such as cobalt oxide, can withstand this intense heat. -
GlazingAfter bisque firing, each piece is glazed by dipping or spraying. During glaze firing, the glaze forms a glass-like protective layer and gives MEISSEN porcelain its signature brilliance. -
Overglaze PaintingApplied to the glazed porcelain, overglaze painting reveals its brilliance during the final color firing. MEISSEN painters specialize in individual techniques from the manufactory's rich decorative tradition. -
Bisque & Glaze FiringDuring firing, porcelain gains its strength, brilliance, and distinctive material qualities. Temperature, timing, and craftsmanship determine the perfect result.