Meissen

Overview

Meissen is Europe's oldest porcelain manufactory, established in 1710 near Dresden, Germany, producing high-quality figurines, dinner services, vases, and tableware by hand. It holds a position as one of the world's leading porcelain manufacturers and a prominent German luxury brand, recognized for its crossed swords logo introduced in 1720, one of the oldest trademarks.¹²⁵

History

The manufactory was founded on 6 June 1710 by Augustus the Strong as the Royal Polish and Electoral Saxon Porcelain Manufactory in Meissen near Dresden.⁷⁴ It introduced the crossed swords logo in 1720 to protect its products.² Since 1991, it has operated as Staatliche Porzellan-Manufaktur Meissen GmbH, owned by the Free State of Saxony.²

Product Lines

Manufacturing

Products are handmade at the porcelain manufactory in Meissen, Germany, maintaining over 300 years of in-house production with uncompromising quality standards.¹⁸

Notable Products

• Crossed Swords Logo Items - Products marked with the iconic crossed swords trademark introduced in 1720.
• KPM Dinner Services - Classic dinnerware sets produced since the 18th century.
• Porcelain Figurines - Hand-sculpted figures representing artistic traditions from the manufactory's history.

Reputation

Meissen is regarded by enthusiasts and professionals as a benchmark for porcelain quality and craftsmanship, synonymous with the highest standards due to its heritage.⁵⁶ It is praised for preserving Europe's oldest porcelain tradition, though high prices limit accessibility.²