CIRCA 1737

The condition of lots can vary widely and the nature of the lots sold means that they are unlikely to be in a perfect condition. Lots are sold in the condition they are in at the time of sale.

This fine and rare group presents very well. There are some condition issues, which are listed in more detail below.

The turbaned servant and the part of the mound that he is standing on have been broken off and restuck, although the servant is relatively unscathed with only his right arm restuck (the feathers and his tray all appear to be in good condition). The back of the chair appears to have been restuck and some of the gilding has been refreshed (it is possible that elements of the chair-back may have been replaced). The lady’s head has been restuck and it is possible that her right arm has been restuck (this has been sprayed with a clear lacquer, making it difficult to discern if it has been restuck or not). There are some restored chips to the hem of her garments adjacent to the servant’s feet and at the back of the group adjacent to the kneeling suitor. The kneeling suitor’s right foot has been restored (and may perhaps be a replacement). A crack runs across the centre of the base of the group, but it is unclear if this is actually a break – most probably it is just a crack. In addition, there is some slight chipping to the flowers and foliage and some retouching to these areas.

An XRF (X-Ray Fluorescence) test was carried out by The Centre for Archaeological and Forensic Analysis at Cranfield University confirming that the enamels on this object is consistent with the published data for enamels on other Meissen porcelain dating to the 18th century.