MeissenLabs #2: Corporate culture & production 24. May 2023

Part 2 of MeissenLab examines corporate culture and production at the Meissen manufactory in GDR times. Tradition is key here; some Meissen families can trace their employment at the “Manu” as far back as the 18th century.

The special status ascribed to manufactory workers in Meissen, and the relationship they have with their “Manu”, developed over many generations. Whole “dynasties” were established whose DNA bore the Meissen swords. During the GDR years, workers there enjoyed various perks such as being entitled to stay in hostels and holiday lodgings, payment in the form of “Unsch” (lower-quality porcelain suitable for private use only), individual work anniversary celebrations and much more.

In that time, Meissen’s special status as an important source of foreign currency meant there was rarely a lack of raw materials or the latest technology to produce porcelain, known as “white gold”. These personal testimonies show work at the manufactory, and its workforce, from different angles.

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Meissenlabs: Betriebskultur & Produktion

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