Another year is coming to an end, time to take a break and look back at the last few months. 2022 was characterized by contrasts. The year's motto "Far & Fantasy - Discover the Unexpected" whisked us away into a world full of fantastic porcelains, exotic décor and strange mythical creatures. The "Giant Bloom" series from the previous year was complemented by additional art pieces. On large murals and plates, colorful poppies and iris blossoms compete with exotic tiger lilies. The Bloom Collection was the first jewelry collection, where the entire development of a lily, from bud to full blossom, are made sculpturally visible. After several years of development, we succeeded in the complicated production of shimmering porcelain pearls, which can be admired in our exclusive Pearl Collection. The winged lioness - half griffin, half dragon - adorned our Christmas collection this year and evokes associations with sphinxes and mighty angels. The fantasy journey was worthily completed with the birth of our new lucky dragon, as the highlight of our limited edition artwork.
At the same time we were shaken by the cold reality of the war in Ukraine. In view of the suffering of the people, our "Peace Mugs" and peace murals were created. 20% of the proceeds were donated to the Red Cross "Ukraine Support" organisation, more than 60.000 Euro were raised.
"2022 - A year marked by contrasts and challenges and behind it all: the people of the Manufactory - with body, soul and dedication!"
This year, too, the manufactory operated in the field between tradition and innovation. We were able to celebrate the 300th anniversary of the introduction of the crossed swords as the distinctive trademark of the manufactory. In the meantime, the swords are no longer only a proof of origin and authenticity, but also have found their way onto various porcelains as an independent decoration.
At the same time, it was important to look forward. After a two-year break from Corona, visitors were once again able to experience the artisanal creation of porcelain, all the way from the company's own kaolin mine to the finished product. The completely redesigned Demonstration Studio, the remodeled Store as well as the Museum and our Café invited visitors into the world of the "White Gold" with fresh energy.
Exciting cooperations led to a variety of new products. We are particularly honored by our collaboration with the French champagne producer Taittinger, which resulted in an exclusive gift set featuring our new, luxurious champagne goblets. Dresdner Christstollen, Boteanicals, Juniper Jack, Schloss Proschwitz and Schloss Wackerbarth are other brands with which we have been able to deepen our cooperation, which in some cases goes back many years.
Sustainability has become an integral part of our agenda. We are pleased to be part of the VOGUE NEXT initiative, which seeks to combine luxury and responsible use of the earth's natural resources.
One of the highlights of the year is the new MEISSEN cookbook - a tribute to Saxony and to the history and tradition of Europe's oldest porcelain manufactory. The special feature: All the recipes are family recipes from manufactory employees, which are also presented at their work places. Hence, the cookbook is also a tribute to the people of the Manufactory. It is the passion of the people who - often against all odds - work behind the scenes every day, with heart and devotion, to ensure that MEISSEN remains what it is: an oasis of creativity, craftsmanship and the love for beautiful things that touch the soul.
On behalf of everyone, we would like to thank our customers, partners and fans and look forward to an exciting year 2023. Numerous new projects are already waiting to be implemented. Be curious.
We wish you a peaceful holiday season and a happy new year!
Your team from MEISSEN