Background

Dresden Porcelain Collection: A Glimpse into Royal Obsession

Discover a world of delicate artistry and royal extravagance at the Dresden Porcelain Collection, home to over 20,000 exquisite porcelain treasures in the heart of Dresden's Zwinger Palace.

4.6

The Dresden Porcelain Collection, nestled within the Zwinger Palace, showcases the extravagant passion of Augustus the Strong for porcelain, or as he called it, 'white gold.' This world-renowned collection features over 20,000 pieces, with a focus on both East Asian ceramics and early Meissen porcelain. Visitors can marvel at the 'Dragoon Vases,' acquired in exchange for a regiment of soldiers, and explore the evolution of porcelain artistry. The collection offers a unique insight into the collecting practices of the Saxon court and the global trade of luxury goods during the 17th and 18th centuries. Beyond the sheer beauty of the objects, the museum provides a glimpse into the history of Dresden and the cultural significance of porcelain as a symbol of wealth and power. A visit promises an immersive experience into a world of delicate artistry and royal extravagance.

A brief summary to SKD | Porcelain Collection

  • Tuesday 10 am-6 pm
  • Wednesday 10 am-6 pm
  • Thursday 10 am-6 pm
  • Friday 10 am-6 pm
  • Saturday 10 am-6 pm
  • Sunday 10 am-6 pm

Local tips

  • Visit during the off-season (spring or fall) to avoid crowds and enjoy a more intimate viewing experience.
  • Combine your visit with other Zwinger Palace museums, such as the Old Masters Picture Gallery and the Royal Cabinet of Mathematical and Physical Instruments, for a comprehensive cultural experience.
  • Take a guided tour to delve deeper into the history and significance of the collection's highlights, including the Dragoon Vases and Meissen porcelain masterpieces. Tours for blind, visually impaired or deaf guests and visitors with learning difficulties are available on request.
widget icon

Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From Dresden Hauptbahnhof (main train station), take tram line 8 (direction Hellerau) or tram line 9 (direction Kaditz) to the 'Theaterplatz' stop. The Porcelain Collection is located within the Zwinger Palace, directly on Theaterplatz. A single ticket within the Dresden fare zone costs €3.40.

  • Walking

    If you are already in Dresden's city center (Altmarkt or Frauenkirche), the Theaterplatz and Zwinger Palace are easily accessible on foot. Follow signs towards 'Semperoper' or 'Zwinger'. The walk is approximately 5-10 minutes. No cost.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    A taxi or ride-share from Dresden Hauptbahnhof to Theaterplatz will cost approximately €10-€13 and take about 4 minutes, depending on traffic.

  • Driving

    If driving, navigate to 01067 Dresden and follow signs to Zentrum (city center) and then Theaterplatz. Parking is available in nearby garages such as 'Parkhaus Altmarkt' or 'Parking at the Semperoper'. Expect to pay around €1.50 to €3 per hour for parking.

Unlock the Best of SKD | Porcelain Collection

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

Discover more about SKD | Porcelain Collection

The Dresden Porcelain Collection, residing in the magnificent Zwinger Palace, stands as a testament to the enduring allure of porcelain and the collecting zeal of Augustus the Strong, Elector of Saxony and King of Poland. His insatiable appetite for porcelain, which he famously termed 'maladie de porcelaine,' transformed Dresden into a leading center for ceramic art and amassed one of the most significant collections in the world. The collection's origins trace back to the early 18th century when Augustus, captivated by the beauty and rarity of East Asian ceramics, began acquiring vast quantities of Chinese and Japanese porcelain. These pieces, obtained through trade fairs, merchants, and even unconventional exchanges like the infamous swap of a regiment of dragoons for 151 Chinese porcelain pieces from King Frederick William I of Prussia, formed the foundation of the royal collection. However, Augustus's ambition extended beyond mere acquisition. He sought to unlock the secrets of porcelain production, a feat accomplished in 1708 by Johann Friedrich Böttger, who, under Augustus's patronage, discovered the formula for hard-paste porcelain, the first in Europe. This breakthrough led to the establishment of the Meissen Porcelain Manufactory in 1710, marking a pivotal moment in the history of European ceramics. The Dresden Porcelain Collection boasts an unparalleled array of Meissen porcelain, showcasing the manufactory's artistic evolution from its early chinoiseries to elaborate table services and monumental figural groups. The collection's highlights include the animal figures created for Augustus's Japanese Palace, a testament to the technical mastery and artistic innovation of Meissen's artisans. Beyond its Meissen treasures, the collection features an extensive assortment of East Asian porcelain, including blue-and-white wares from the Ming and Qing dynasties, famille verte and famille rose pieces, Dehua ceramics, and Japanese Arita porcelain. These objects offer a glimpse into the diverse styles and techniques of Asian ceramic traditions and their influence on European porcelain production. Originally intended for display in the Japanisches Palais, Augustus's grand vision for a 'porcelain palace' remained unfulfilled during his lifetime. The collection was later housed in the Johanneum before finding its permanent home in the Zwinger Palace in 1962, where it continues to captivate visitors with its splendor and historical significance. Today, the Dresden Porcelain Collection comprises approximately 20,000 objects, of which around 2,000 are on permanent display. The collection is not only a visual feast but also a valuable resource for scholars and researchers, providing insights into the history of ceramics, collecting practices, and the cultural exchange between Europe and Asia. The museum's displays are thoughtfully curated, blending classical and modern elements to showcase the porcelain's beauty and historical context. The East Asian collection is presented on historic tables against panels lacquered with anthracite grey and cinnabar, creating a striking contrast that highlights the porcelain's delicate forms and intricate designs. The Dresden Porcelain Collection is more than just a collection of beautiful objects; it is a window into the past, offering a glimpse into the world of royal patronage, artistic innovation, and global trade. A visit to this extraordinary museum is an immersive experience that will leave you with a newfound appreciation for the artistry and cultural significance of porcelain.

Popular Experiences near SKD | Porcelain Collection

Popular Hotels near SKD | Porcelain Collection

Select Currency