Porzellanmanufaktur Nymphenburg is one of the oldest and most renowned porcelain manufacturers in the world. It was founded in 1747 by Elector Max III Joseph of Bavaria to produce the precious “white gold” in his own country. Since then, the manufactory has experienced a long and eventful history, closely linked to Bavarian culture and European artistic taste.
The beginnings of Porzellanmanufaktur Nymphenburg lie in the royal seat of Munich, where the first workshops and kilns were set up. The first products were mainly tableware and dinner services for the court and the nobility, which were characterized by high quality and an elegant design language. The manufactory oriented itself on the models from Meissen, France and Italy, but soon developed its own style.
In 1761, Porzellanmanufaktur Nymphenburg was relocated to Nymphenburg Palace, where it is still based today. Under the direction of Franz Anton Bustelli, some of the manufactory’s most famous works were created during this period, such as the figures from the Commedia dell’arte cycle or the animal sculptures based on designs by Johann Joachim Kaendler. The manufactory became a center of the Rococo style, which was characterized by playful and lively design.
In the 19th century, Porzellanmanufaktur Nymphenburg experienced several crises and upheavals. In 1806, Bavaria was elevated to the status of a kingdom, and the manufactory became Königliche Porzellanmanufaktur Nymphenburg. However, demand for the expensive porcelain declined as political and economic changes took place. In 1862, the manufactory was given to private tenants who specialized in technical, medical and sanitary products.
It was not until the 20th century that Porzellanmanufaktur Nymphenburg regained its former glory. Under the leadership of Albert Bäuml, who took over the manufactory in 1888, the artistic heritage was revived and new impulses were set. The manufactory became a pioneer of Art Nouveau, Art Deco and the Bauhaus style.
Today, Porzellanmanufaktur Nymphenburg is one of the few manufactories in the world that still produces purely by hand. It combines tradition and modernity in a unique way. It works with contemporary designers such as Hella Jongerius, Konstantin Grcic and Ted Muehling, who develop new shapes and functions for the porcelain. The manufactory is not only a manufacturer of high quality porcelain, but also a place of art and culture.