A rare pair of ormolu-mounted Meissen vases and covers emblematic of Air circa 1747-48, the ormolu mounts later

modelled by J.J.Kaendler as a basket-pierced baluster vase enclosed by rococo scrollwork picked out in purple and light green, on a similarly-moulded socle, the later domed and pierced covers encrusted with flowers and with canary finials

Meissner Porzellan des 18.Jahrhunderts aus Hamburger Privatbesitz, Hamburg 1982; see Herman Jedding's catalogue, pp.169-170, nos.172 and 173

For the original, complete form, see E.Zimmermann, Meissner Porzellan, 1926, p.181, pl.47; and C.Albiker, Die Meissner Porzellantiere, no.309

some losses and hair cracks
"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."

These vases form the central part of one of J.J.Kaendler's rarest designs, an elaborate vase mounted with a parrot, a windmill, and a putto, surmounted by a high cover modelled as a cloud, symbolising Air and presumably part of a set of the Four Elements.