en detail
The Porcelain Collection in the Zwinger is based on the extensive collection of Chinese, Japanese and Meissen porcelain (often referred to as 'Dresden china') assembled by the Elector of Saxony and King of Poland, August the Strong. Even at that time, this unique collection comprised about 50,000 objects, which were to have been exhibited in the Japanese Palace ('Japanisches Palais') in Dresden-Neustadt.
The arrangement of the porcelain objects on the walls in the Zwinger more or less corresponds to the king's plans for his Porcelain Palace. Prominent among the exhibits are Chinese vessels and figures dating from the Sung, Ming and K'ang-hsi periods, as well as Japanese Imari and Kakiemon porcelain from Arita.
The development of Meissen porcelain from the time of its invention in 1708 until the late 18th century is illustrated by works of supreme artistry. Of particular interest are the small figures and large animals by Johann Joachim Kaendler, and the coloured chinoiserie and flower painting by Johann Gregorius Hoeroldt and his workshop. The large collection of Böttger stoneware and Böttger porcelain is on display in the first-floor pavilion.
The Dresden Porcelain Collection has been accommodated in the Zwinger since 1962.
