Frankenthal Porcelain: a rarity worthy of museum collections

Frankenthal porcelain was produced in Germany for only 44 years. The factory couldn't endure as long as the manufactories in Meissen or Nymphenburg. Nevertheless, it is one of the largest German porcelain manufacturers. In less than half a century, it gained fame for its tableware and statuettes with delicate painting in rococo and classical styles. Today, 18th-century Frankenthal porcelain has become a rarity and a valuable collectible. Many specimens are preserved in museums in Germany and other countries, including the Hermitage collection.

Frankenthal Porcelain. Sculptural group Scythian queen Tomiris and the head of the Persian king Cyrus

Frankenthal Porcelain. Part of a service of 1782

History of the Frankenthal Manufactory

Frankenthal porcelain began production in 1755. Originally founded by Paul-Antoine Hannong, the factory operated for several years in the French city of Strasbourg. The move was prompted by Louis XV's decision to close all porcelain productions in favor of the manufacture in Sèvres. In its new location, the Frankenthal factory quickly became successful. It produced magnificent hard-paste porcelain with elements of the French style in artistic design. The color of the porcelain body had a delicate creamy shade.

Frankenthal Porcelain. Sculpture The Good Mother, c. 1765

From 1761, Frankenthal porcelain was produced under state management, as the Elector Palatine Karl Theodor bought the factory from Hannong's sons. During the period from 1762 to 1770, the factory created products of the highest quality, bringing fame to the manufacture. Later, the quality of the porcelain slightly declined due to the transition to kaolin from Passau. After the invasion of Frankenthal by French troops in 1799, production closed. Some molds were transferred to the Nymphenburg factory, where items were reproduced until the end of the 19th and the beginning of the 20th century.

Frankenthal Porcelain. Plate with painted Peony, 1765

Frankenthal Porcelain. Sculptural portrait of Elector Carl Theodor of Bavaria in neoclassical style made of biscuit porcelain, 1792

Best Artists of the Frankenthal Manufactory:

• Johann Wilhelm Lanz. Worked at the factory until 1761 and became renowned for virtuoso allegorical statuettes and interior items in the Rococo style.
• Johann Friedrich Lück. Contributed to Frankenthal porcelain from 1758 to 1764, excelling in genre scenes with contemporary themes.
• Franz Conrad Linck. Joined the factory after it came under the leadership of the Elector Palatine. Became the author of famous sculptural groups, with many figures exhibiting portrait-like features.
• Johann Peter Melchior. Worked at Frankenthal production from 1779 to 1793, creating classical-style portrait medallions and charming sculptures featuring children.

Frankenthal Porcelain. Johann Friedrich Luke. Sculpture of a young girl sitting at a table

Frankenthal Porcelain. Franz Conrad Link. Sculpture Ocean, 1765

Frankenthal porcelain is characterized by its understated luxury, exquisite statuettes, biscuit sculptures, refined vases, fireplace clocks, and other items. Such antiques can enhance any collection. If you are interested in acquiring antique porcelain, visit the Very Important Lot website! Auctions are held here where you can purchase items from Russian and international masters. Additionally, contemporary artworks are also available for purchase.

Frankenthal Porcelain. Sculptural group Three Moira, 1773