Nymphenburg is the Bavarian Royal family’s porcelain manufactory – this new book, replete with fine illustrations, provides a comprehensive insight into the making of these precious pieces, which has not changed significantly since the factory was established in 1747. »Manu factum« denotes the same thing to this day: made entirely by hand using techniques handed down from generation to generation and duly preserved for posterity. Only in this way can the unparalleled refinement, sophistication and brilliance of this porcelain be guaranteed, which in turn is responsible for Nymphenburg’s high standing worldwide. The factory’s master workshops produce stylistically influential and custom-made designs dating from over four centuries to the present day and created by renowned ­artists, architects and designers. Founded by Maximilian III Joseph, Elector of Bavaria, in 1747, ­Nymphenburg is now one of the last dedicated manufactories in the world. In its 265-year history, the Nymphenburg Porcelain Factory has not only managed to prevail against the vicissitudes of changing styles, but has also sur­vived various periods of profound economic instability. Moreover, the house respects its traditions and treats them as a most precious treasure, and alongside 15,000 ­colour formulas, it ­boasts a repertoire of up to 30,000 different moulds. With careful and concise attention to detail, Frank Stolle’s photographs guides us through the entire factory situ­ated in the northern wing of Nymphenburg Palace in ­Munich, which has ­housed the workshops since 1761. The book contains views of the salesrooms, depots and warehouses, the hydro-power plant and the paste mill, the moulding and turning shops, the luting shop and paint lab, as well as illustrating the intricacies of the firing, painting, underglaze painting and gilding processes.