Augarten Porcelain - A Journey from the Vienna Court to Modern Times
Manufaktur Augarten, Vienna
Preserving the Legacy of European Porcelain Craftsmanship
For centuries, the art of porcelain production remained shrouded in mystery, a closely guarded secret originating from the distant lands of China. It wasn't until the 18th century that this enigmatic craft finally found its way to Europe, setting the stage for a fascinating journey of innovation and tradition. Among the European manufacturers, two key players, Augarten Porcelain in Vienna, Austria, and Meissen in Germany, made significant contributions to the development of European porcelain craftsmanship.
Augarten Porcelain: A Legacy Born in 1718
In the heart of Vienna, a historical treasure was born in the year 1718. Claudius Innozenz Du Paquier, a Hofkriegsagent (court war agent), secured a privilege that would become the cornerstone of Viennese porcelain craftsmanship. He established a small porcelain manufactory in the Rossau district, nestled in the Kuefsteinische House, situated on a property that had been under Kuefstein family ownership since 1701. Despite some initial challenges, Du Paquier's efforts received state support, and his vision began to take shape.
In 1721, the manufactory relocated to a newly acquired summer residence, known as the gräflich Breunerische Sommergebäude, which was transformed into a porcelain factory. This marked the beginning of a long and illustrious journey in the world of porcelain. However, the early years did not live up to the founder's expectations.
Era of State Administration: 1744 - 1864
In 1744, faced with the need to sell the manufactory, Du Paquier handed over his cherished legacy to Maria Theresa, and it came under state administration. Located on Porzellangasse 51 in Vienna, this marked a significant turning point in the history of Augarten Porcelain. Over the next 120 years, the manufactory experienced four distinct periods, each characterized by unique artistic influences.
The "Plastic Period" (1744-1784): This era witnessed the flourishing of Rococo porcelain art, with exquisite figurative creations. Sculptor Johann Joseph Niedermayer played a pivotal role in this period.
The "Pictorial Period" (1784-1805): Under the directorship of Conrad Sörgel von Sorgenthal, Augarten Porcelain embraced classicism, excelling in porcelain painting with relief gold decoration and cobalt blue.
Viennese Views and Biedermeier Designs (1805-1833): Directors Matthias Niedermayer and Benjamin von Scholz steered the production towards Viennese views and Biedermeier designs, driven by orders during the Vienna Congress.
Late Biedermeier and Early Historicism (1833-1864): This period witnessed a shift towards utilitarian ware due to the competition from Bohemian factories, leading to its closure in 1864.
Revival in the Republic and Beyond
The legacy of Augarten Porcelain was not forgotten. In 1923, during the Republic of Austria, the porcelain manufactory was re-established in the Augarten, breathing new life into this age-old tradition. Today, it stands as one of the world's most significant porcelain manufacturers, where skilled artists craft exquisite porcelain pieces, known for their timeless beauty and enduring value.
Even in the face of adversity, Augarten Porcelain has weathered the storm. In 2003, it faced bankruptcy, but its legacy was safeguarded when the assets were purchased by VMS Value Management Services GmbH. The "New Porcelain Manufactory Augarten" emerged from the ashes, upholding the tradition of exclusive handcrafted production and artistic excellence.
One of the most remarkable milestones in Augarten's history took place in 2014 when it, in collaboration with the Austrian Post, released the world's first porcelain postage stamp, further cementing its place in the annals of art and craftsmanship.
In an ever-changing world, Augarten Porcelain stands as a testament to the enduring power of tradition and artistic mastery, a legacy that continues to enchant and inspire.
Porcelain from the Manodesign Atelier
