Mezzetin

Manufacturer Mennecy Porcelain Manufactory (French, 1735 - 1773)

CultureFrench

OriginMennecy, Île-de-France, France

PeriodLouis XV (1715-1744)

Dateca.1755-1760

MediumSoft-paste porcelain with overglaze enamels, gilding

DimensionsOverall: 21.5 x 9.3 cm (8 7/16 x 3 11/16 in.)

MarkingsIncised DV

DescriptionFigure of Mezzetino, the servant and friend of Harlequin in the Italian Comedy. Mezzetino stands on a rectangular base with his weight on his back right leg, leaning towards the left. His hands are hidden in his short, striped cloak, which matches his hat. He wears a ruffled shirt and a white waistcoat, with many tiny buttons reaching his collar. His loose britches are tied at the knee with yellow garters and ribbons. Puce shoes are also tied with yellow ribbons. The overall colour scheme is of very pale green, yellow and a rose-puce. Decoration has been painted with an exceptionally light hand, giving a feeling of delicacy and grace. Mezzetino's pose is reminiscent of a dancer, listening to music.

Credit LinePurchased with funds raised by the Twelve Trees of Christmas and donations from eight anonymous contributors

Object numberG93.3.1

Classifications

European Ceramics

Sub-classification

French Porcelain

Collections

Status

On view