A Volkstedt porcelain figure group emblematic of 'Fire', 1775-80

modelled as a blacksmith wearing a chamois apron working at an anvil, his female assistant holding a hammer, with a set of bellows at the base of a brick furnace between two trees, on a grassy mound base,

RELATED LITERATURE
Markus W. Peters, op. cit, 1991, p. 113, abb. 62;
Helmut Scherf, op. cit., 1992, p. 28;
Ralf-Jürgen Sattler, op. cit., 1993, pp. 98-99.

The figure group has been broken and repaired, though in generally good appearance. The female figure and upper part of tree trunk behind her broken through middle and restored. The underside is sprayed. The male figure's left hand and the tools in that hand restored. Four tree branches probably lacking, where their stumps have been painted over in brown and green. Chips to applied leaves.
"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. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

For all four models from the Element series see Peters, pp. 113-116, abbs. 62-65. Another example of this rare model was sold in these rooms, 4th June 1996, lot 122.