Vienna Porcelain Manufactory: Habsburg Service, dessert service with centrepieces; centrepiece with portraits of Albrecht II

The Habsburg Service is an example of how historical forms were drawn on to support dynastic notions. Founded in 1718 as a private enterprise, the Vienna Porcelain Manufactory ran up huge debts and was eventually taken over by the state in 1744. It was not only the continued existence of the manufactory that was at stake; according to prevailing mercantilist thought, the state had ultimate authority over all economic affairs, and by creating opportunities for people to earn money was securing the welfare of its citizens. Franz II (I) was always careful to buy items needed for the use of the Court from state enterprises: all the large services were commissioned from the Vienna Porcelain Manufactory. These services were in use for decades and were continually extended.