Porcelain Collection - Nat West Piggy Banks
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Porcelain Collection

4.7
·1k reviews·Dresden, Germany

A vast and stunning collection of ancient Chinese, Japanese, and German porcelain, showcasing centuries of exquisite craftsmanship.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more serene viewing

CrowdLow
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Porcelain Collection - Nat West Piggy Banks

Porcelain Collection

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more serene viewing

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A vast and stunning collection of ancient Chinese, Japanese, and German porcelain, showcasing centuries of exquisite craftsmanship.

4.7
(1k reviews)

"I never imagined I would enjoy a porcelain museum this much. The collection is vast, with so much to see and admire."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎟️ Combined Tickets

Admission is often included with tickets for the Gallery of Old Masters, making it a great value add-on.

🧐 Seek More Info

Consider guided tours or audio guides for deeper insights into the historical pieces.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Meissen Porcelain Masterpieces

Meissen Porcelain Masterpieces

Zwinger Palace

Witness the exquisite artistry of early Meissen porcelain, showcasing centuries of German ceramic innovation.

East Asian Ceramic Treasures

East Asian Ceramic Treasures

Zwinger Palace

Marvel at rare Japanese and Chinese porcelain, some over 300 years old, offering a glimpse into ancient craftsmanship.

Augustus the Strong's Collection

Augustus the Strong's Collection

Zwinger Palace

Explore the extensive and historically significant collection amassed by Augustus the Strong, a true ceramic enthusiast.

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Planning Your Visit

Timing Your Visit

To avoid the largest crowds, aim for weekday mornings or late afternoons. Weekends and midday can get busy, especially when combined with other Zwinger Palace attractions. Consider booking tickets in advance if visiting during peak season.

Beyond the Display Cases

While the collection is vast, some visitors wish for more detailed information on individual pieces. Look for guided tours or audio guides if available to deepen your understanding of these historical ceramic treasures.

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, more serene viewing
Crowd
Low
When
Late afternoons
Why
Tour groups thin out
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Have you ever seen such a ceramic restoration? The whole process of the restoration of a Ming Dynasty blue and white porcelain gold repair is a soul-like audio-visual feast.#lacquerware #kintsukuroi #handmade #fyp #foryou #craftsman #handwork #craftsmanship
@juewuxiansheng
926.3K likes • 17.1M views

🎟️ Combined Tickets

Admission is often included with tickets for the Gallery of Old Masters, making it a great value add-on. Reddit

🧐 Seek More Info

Consider guided tours or audio guides for deeper insights into the historical pieces. Reddit

Do you know how Chinese millennia-old traditional porcelain was made?#handwork #craft #craftsman #chineseculture #foryou
@ancient.civilizat78
806.4K likes • 19.3M views
Sneak peek into my porcelain collection. Part 1. Загляните в мою коллекцию фарфора. Часть 1. По хэштегам можно почитать разные истории про тот или иной предмет из моей коллекции или истории мануфактуры: #dta_meissen #dta_porcelaincollection #dta_collection #dta_history #dta_коллекция
the_door_to_the_attic
100 likes • 1K views

📸 Capture the Craft

While photography rules vary, try to capture the intricate details of these ancient ceramic works. TikTok

⏳ Allow Ample Time

The collection is vast; dedicate enough time to truly appreciate the stunning porcelain pieces. Reddit

She is beautiful!💓 Невеличкі зміни і тепер улюблені предмети з колекції на видному місці) ✨ #vintagetableware #vintageplates #chinacabinet #porcelaincollection
anastasiagladyr
1.6K likes • 30.9K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎟️ Combined Tickets

Admission is often included with tickets for the Gallery of Old Masters, making it a great value add-on. Reddit

🧐 Seek More Info

Consider guided tours or audio guides for deeper insights into the historical pieces. Reddit

📸 Capture the Craft

While photography rules vary, try to capture the intricate details of these ancient ceramic works. TikTok

⏳ Allow Ample Time

The collection is vast; dedicate enough time to truly appreciate the stunning porcelain pieces. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.7
(1k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise the Porcelain Collection for its vastness and the stunning beauty of its ancient Chinese, Japanese, and German (Meissen) pieces. Many consider it an unexpected gem and a must-see, especially for ceramic enthusiasts. Some wish for more detailed information on individual exhibits.

"Admition is included in the ticket for Galery of Old Masters, so if you still have time and energy left I highly recommend to visit this gem.
A lot of Japanese and Chinese porcelain made more 300 years ago and some examples do not exist or hard to find anywhere else. An extensive collection of Messen porcelain from the very beginning of the manufacture is here also.
A lot of beautiful and breathtaking pieces. I didn't even expect it to be so wonderful.
Definitely worth a visit."

elllen k

"Extremely impressive porcelain collection of Chinese, Japanese and German (Meissen) origin of Augustus the Strong.
The oldest piece is more than 900 years old!
I consider it a must-see as this not easily available anywhere else.

(Rated & graded as a museum)"

Tymoteusz M.

"I never imagined I would enjoy a porcelain museum this much. The collection is vast, with so much to see and admire. The porcelain pieces are truly stunning. I believe this is a must-see when visiting Dresden."

Meryem Gocmen

What People Like

Extensive and rare collection
Beautiful and breathtaking pieces
Historical significance

What People Dislike

Lack of detailed information

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Porcelain Collection is located within the Zwinger Palace complex in Dresden, Germany. You can reach the Zwinger Palace by public transport, including trams and buses, which stop nearby. It's also a pleasant walk from the city center. TikTok

While there isn't direct parking at the Zwinger Palace, several public parking garages are located within walking distance. Consider using these if you're arriving by car. TikTok

Yes, it's a walkable distance of about 15-20 minutes from Dresden Hauptbahnhof (main train station) to the Zwinger Palace. The route is generally straightforward and pleasant. TikTok

The Porcelain Collection is part of the Zwinger Palace's museum offerings. Access is typically through the main entrances of the Zwinger Palace, and then following signage for the collection. Reddit

Once inside the Zwinger Palace, look for clear signage directing you to the 'Porzellansammlung' (Porcelain Collection). Staff are also available to assist with directions. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Admission to the Porcelain Collection is often included with a ticket to the Gallery of Old Masters. It's advisable to check the official Zwinger Palace website for the most current ticket prices and package deals. Reddit

Booking tickets in advance is recommended, especially during peak tourist seasons, to ensure entry and potentially save time waiting in line. Reddit

Opening hours can vary seasonally. It's best to consult the official Zwinger Palace website for the most up-to-date information on daily opening and closing times. TikTok

While some attractions may have timed entry, the Porcelain Collection typically allows entry during its operating hours. However, booking a timed ticket can help manage crowd flow. Reddit

Discounts may be available for students, seniors, or groups. Check the Zwinger Palace's official website for details on any concessionary rates. TikTok

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

The Porcelain Collection is renowned for its extensive and historically significant display of Chinese, Japanese, and German (Meissen) porcelain, some pieces dating back over 900 years. Reddit

To fully appreciate the vastness and detail of the collection, plan for at least 1.5 to 2 hours. Some enthusiasts might spend longer. Reddit

While children can visit, the collection's delicate nature and historical significance might be more engaging for older children and adults. Interactive elements are limited. TikTok

Photography policies can vary. Generally, non-flash photography for personal use might be permitted, but it's essential to check the specific rules posted at the entrance or inquire with staff. TikTok

The Porcelain Collection itself does not typically have a cafe. However, the Zwinger Palace complex and the surrounding area offer numerous dining options. TikTok

📸 📸 Photography

Photography rules can change, but generally, flash photography is prohibited to protect the delicate porcelain. Always check for posted signs or ask staff for clarification. TikTok

Focus on capturing the intricate details of the porcelain pieces, the vibrant glazes, and the sheer scale of the collection. The display cases themselves can also be photogenic. TikTok

Tripods and selfie sticks are typically not allowed in museum collections to prevent damage and ensure visitor safety and comfort. TikTok

A camera with good low-light performance and macro capabilities would be ideal for capturing the fine details and textures of the porcelain. TikTok

If any restoration work is on display or visible, photography rules would apply as they do to the exhibits. Check for specific signage regarding restoration areas. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

While the Porcelain Collection is a treasure trove of history, it might be more suited for older children who can appreciate the delicate nature of the exhibits. The sheer volume of items can be overwhelming for very young children. Consider focusing on a few key pieces or looking for any interactive elements if available. TikTok

To make the visit more engaging, you could turn it into a 'spot the animal' or 'find the most colorful' game. Discussing the history of how porcelain was made, as seen in some educational TikToks, might also spark their interest. TikTok

💎 Ceramic Enthusiasts

For true ceramic enthusiasts, the Porcelain Collection is an absolute must-see. The extensive range of Chinese, Japanese, and especially early Meissen porcelain is unparalleled. Reddit+1 You'll find pieces that are rare, historically significant, and breathtaking in their artistry. Reddit

Pay close attention to the details of the restoration work, the nuances in glaze colors, and the evolution of forms across different eras and cultures. This collection offers a deep dive into the world of historical ceramics that is hard to find elsewhere. TikTok+1

🏛️ History Buffs

History buffs will be captivated by the sheer age and provenance of the pieces in the Porcelain Collection. With items dating back over 900 years and a significant focus on the collection of Augustus the Strong, it's a journey through centuries of art and culture. Reddit+1 The display of early Meissen porcelain also offers insights into the development of European manufacturing and trade. TikTok

Understanding the context of these pieces – their creation, use, and acquisition – adds immense value to the visit. It's a chance to connect with the past through tangible, exquisite objects. TikTok

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Art of Ceramic Restoration

The meticulous art of ceramic restoration is a fascinating aspect of preserving historical artifacts. Videos showcase the intricate process of repairing broken porcelain, often using traditional lacquering and gold-joining techniques, a practice known as kintsukuroi in Japan. This method not only mends the object but also highlights the repair as part of its history, rather than trying to conceal it. TikTok+1

This dedication to preservation ensures that pieces, some dating back centuries, can continue to be admired. The skill involved is immense, requiring patience, precision, and a deep understanding of materials. Witnessing this craftsmanship offers a unique appreciation for the longevity and care given to these valuable collections. TikTok

For visitors, understanding the restoration process adds another layer of appreciation for the objects on display. It highlights the continuous effort to maintain these treasures for future generations, making each piece a testament to both its original creation and its ongoing care. TikTok

A Journey Through East Asian Ceramics

The Porcelain Collection boasts an impressive array of Japanese and Chinese porcelain, with some pieces exceeding 300 years in age. These artifacts offer a window into the rich history and diverse styles of East Asian ceramic art. From delicate blue and white ceramics to intricately painted designs, the collection showcases the mastery of artisans from these regions. TikTok

Visitors can explore various dynasties and periods, observing the evolution of techniques and aesthetics. The sheer rarity of some of these items, with certain examples being hard to find anywhere else globally, makes this section a significant draw for enthusiasts. Reddit

This part of the collection not only educates about the cultural significance of porcelain in East Asia but also highlights its influence on European ceramic production, particularly evident in the Meissen pieces. TikTok

The Legacy of Meissen Porcelain

A cornerstone of the collection is the extensive display of Meissen porcelain, originating from the very beginnings of its renowned manufacture. This German porcelain, established in the early 18th century, quickly gained international acclaim for its quality, artistry, and innovative techniques. The collection features a wide range of Meissen figurines and decorative pieces, illustrating the brand's historical importance. Reddit

Visitors can admire the detailed craftsmanship, from the iconic blue onion pattern to elaborate figural sculptures. The Meissen pieces represent a significant chapter in European decorative arts and demonstrate the influence of East Asian ceramics on Western production. TikTok

Exploring the Meissen section provides insight into the evolution of European porcelain production and its enduring appeal. It's a chance to see some of the earliest and most iconic examples of this celebrated ceramic tradition. Reddit

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