A rare porcelain sugar bowl (originally with a lid) with a polylobed shape, a slightly everted rim, a ring-shaped base, and a polychrome painted decoration arranged within four rectangular compartments shaped in brown and gold. The two side compartments feature naturalistic floral sprigs, according to the Germanic Blumen lexicon reinterpreted in an Italian style, while the two main compartments, decorated with figures, feature scenes from the engraving cycle “Les Jeux et Plaisirs de l’Enfance” by Jacques Stella.

The entire work, published in Paris around 1657, consists of 50 sheets dedicated to a wide variety of children’s games; each serves as an educational metaphor for a different type of skill and a prelude to adult life, governed by rules. The subjects depicted here are, on the one hand, children engaged in archery, a moral lesson emphasizing dexterity, aim, and discipline; On the opposite side, children are riding a goat, symbolizing balance, confidence, and mastery of the body.

Doccia (Florence);  c. 1750.