Pair of Imperial Porcelain Busts

Manufacturer: Imperial Porcelain Manufactory
Date: Vienna 1814/15
Material: Biscuit porcelain (busts), glazed porcelain with gilt decoration (pedestals); busts marked with modeller’s initials “D” and “814”, pedestals marked with underglaze blue or incised shield, “814” or “815”, and painter’s numbers “36” or “25”
Measurements: H 45 cm
Inscriptions: “FRANCISCUS I” and “E.H. Ferdinand”

Description: Finely crafted pair of biscuit porcelain busts depicting Emperor Franz I and Archduke Ferdinand of Austria. Both are portrayed in gala uniforms adorned with decorations, accurately reflecting their age at the time of creation. The pedestals are glazed and richly embellished with gold detailing. The emperor’s pedestal is deliberately taller and more ornate to emphasize his superior rank

Created to commemorate the Congress of Vienna in 1814/15, possibly intended as diplomatic gifts

Comparable pieces are part of the Princely Collection of Liechtenstein: PO 1934 & PO 2616