- 30
A rare Saint Cloud white figure of a cockerel circa 1745-50
Description
- ceramics
- heights 6 3/4 in.
- 17.1 cm
Provenance
The Lesley and Emma Sheafer Collection, Bequest of Emma A. Sheafer, 1973
Literature
The French Porcelain Society Journal, Volume I, 2003, Andreine D'Agliano, "Some French Soft-Paste Animals from the Collections of the Dukes of Parma", p. 104, fig. 2, right
Condition
In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective qualified opinion.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.
Catalogue Note
The design source for the present models carries striking similarities to a white Chinese export ewer in the shape of a cockerel, an example of which is illustrated in William R. Sargent, Treasures of Chinese Export Ceramics from the Peabosy Essex Museum, p. 205, cat. no. 97. Bertrand Rondot mentions in Discovering the Secrets of Soft-Paste Porcelain at the Saint-Cloud Manufactory, ca. 1690-1766, pp. 290-291 that European subjects were produced after 1730 and were influenced by models from the Sévres and Meissen manufactories. It is unknown whether another Meissen or French prototype for the present models existed.
Production of animal sculpture in soft-paste porcelain is generally rare, perhaps reflecting the challenges of the plasticity in this medium. Other Saint Cloud wares involving animal sculptures include snuffboxes with reclining animals, such as sheep, cats or dogs; several examples are illustrated ibid, p. 239, cat. nos. 193-199.
Sotheby's would like to thank Selma Schwartz for assistance in the research of the present lot.