During the Biedermeier era, Viennese porcelain became a status symbol for the aspiring middle classes. The hand-made gems that graced the tables of wealthy citizens of that time featured designs and decoration like the “Viennese Rose” and other floral styles which remain popular today.

Rapid growth in competition at home and abroad finally forced the famous company to close down in 1864. Its extensive collection of designs was donated to the Museum of Art and Industry, which is now the Museum of Applied Art. An important chapter in Austrian history had come to an end – or so it seemed.