A Meissen group of Dancing Harlequin and Columbine circa 1745

by Johann Joachim Kändler, modelled in the white, both figures laughing and full of movement, set on a base with a small seated pug and applied flowers, some restoration

Purchased from Spiro, May 1945, for £90.

Three hands have been restored: her left thumb and her right little finger and middle finger tip, and his left index finger and thumb are all replaced, her right hand has also been broken off at the wrist and stuck back in place. The restoration is crude and has discoloured. The tip of her right shoe is chipped as is the lower corner of her apron on her right side and one corner of her hat and its bow. There are some typical minor chips to applied foliage and other extremities. Some firing flaws and wear/losses to glaze.
"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."

This model appears in Kändler's workbook or Taxa listing new models covering the years 1740-44.  For a coloured example in the Rijksmuseum, see Commedia dell'Arte, Fest der Komödianten, Berlin exhibition catalogue, 2001, ed. Reinhard Jansen, front cover and p. 51, no. 29