Since 1710, Meissen has been known as one of the finest porcelain manufacturers in the world, easily recognized by the handpainted crossed blue swords on every piece. The secret behind Meissen is the special mixture of local raw materials, especially the 65% kaolin from the manufactory’s own mine near Meißen. Furthermore, the manufactory has more than 700,000 models and dies, the oldest collection of its kind. This, combined with more than 10,000 possible color formulas from Meissen’s own laboratory and a traditional craftsmanship that survives to this day, results in handmade artworks of exquisite value. Meissen pieces can be found at museums worldwide.