A Meissen 'Cryes of London' figure of the Ballad Seller circa 1755

modelled by P. Reinecke, holding a rolled-up paper in his right hand and a music sheet in his left, wearing a black hat, a purple lined green coat with gilt buttons, yellow breeches and black shoes with red bows, standing on a scroll-edged base applied with leaves

The left hand a replacement.
"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."

The ballad seller, also know as Roger Teasdale, was modelled after the engraving by Marcellus Laroon titled 'A Merry new Song', where he is shown with his partner Mrs Parker. Ballads were originally simple narrative poems meant for singing but from the 16th century developed into political and topical comments on contemporary events

For an example of this figure holding a rolled music sheet only in the left hand see H. Syz, J.Jefferson Miller, R. Rückert, Catalogue of the Hans Syz Collection, p. 458, pl. 304, titled as 'The Singer'. For an example without the sheet music see Y. Adams, Kaendler Figures, p. 41, pl. 88.