Once worth more than its weight in gold, Meissen Porcelain has graced the households of royalty and artistocracy for hundreds of years. Famed ceramic expert and Antiques Roadshow stalwart John Sandon explores the history of this precious commodity: from its mysterious discovery by an imprisoned alchemist held captive in the King of Saxony's castle, to its reputation as the most beautiful of all porcelains. Providing further insight into the beautiful world of chinaware, "Meissen Porcelain" is an essential topic for the growing Shire list, and a welcome volume to join Sandon's carefully detailed titles in "The Shire Collection: British Porcelain and Worcester Porcelain".

Author Biography

John Sandon is International Director of European Ceramics and Glass at Bonhams Auctioneers. He is a world authority on European porcelain, has written many books and articles on the subject, and is a regular expert on the BBC's Antiques Roadshow.