The Meissen Collectors' Catalogue

Early in the 20th century Meissen published two editions of a catalogue of the porcelain manufactured by the factory in the latter part of the 19th century and in the first decade of the 20th century. This book is an annotated version of that very rare catalogue, reproducing the illustrations and relating each item to its series and cross-matching to its pair where one exists. The models shown are, in the main, copies of designs originating from 1750 onwards. Prominent is the work of the renowned modeller Kandler and there are examples by lesser known modellers such as Kirchner. Many colour illustrations of the pieces described in the catalogue are illustrated in this important new publication. Meissen porcelain is highly collectable and this book will be an invaluable source of reference for collectors, the trade and to the insurance industry.

Laurence Mitchell, antique dealer in European and Oriental Porcelain and works of art, specialising in Meissen, particularly the nineteenth century. During the latter part of the 1980s he was able to purchase the second edition of the very rare catalogue used by the Meissen salesmen to show off their wares. Realising the potential of this book, which illustrated over 1700 images of models as they looked when reproduced in the second half of the nineteenth century, he sought to create a chronological history of as many models as possible in the catalogue. Today his interests are buying and selling antiques at his shop in Camden Passage and creating a comprehensive website for the Meissen enthusiast. He is also consultant to the insurance industry for antique valuations and restoration.