The amazing fairytale of how Meissen porcelain - Europe’s first manufactory of ‘true’ porcelain – was discovered; the men involved, the design precursors of its first creations, its inspired inventions and continued history right into the 20th century; its influence on later factories throughout the world, from the 18th century to the present. We meet Augustus the Strong and the slippery alchemist Johann Friedrich Boettger as he saved his neck by coming up with something better than gold….

Since his 1986 debut on the BBC Antiques Roadshow (and all series since), Lars Tharp has spoken widely, within and beyond the UK. With over 40 years of experience in ceramics and other areas, he aims to combine several compelling narratives with enthusiasm and humour.

He was born in Copenhagen, studied Archaeology at Cambridge and joined Sothebys where, as a director and auctioneer (1977-1993), he specialized in Chinese and European ceramics. Today his consultancy devises and curates exhibitions, advises on the acquisition, care and disposal of ceramics and other fields. He also speaks a lot: many of my most popular talks concern the vast universe of clay and ceramics as well as the world and works of William Hogarth.