A Meissen group of a rearing horse and Turkish groom circa 1753

modelled by J. J. Kändler, the horse dappled in grey, the groom wearing a red and white turban, yellow coat and shoes and red trousers, raised on an oval base applied with flowers, crossed swords mark in underglaze-blue (some restoration)

Sotheby's Zurich, 24th November 1993, lot 42

Horse with restoration to both front legs and both ears replaced reins. Minor restoration and chips to applied flowers and leaves. Large firing crack to underside of base.
"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."

Four examples of this model are illustrated by Albiker (1959), nos. 245-248, where the author links the modelling of the group to an entry in Kändler's work records of 1765. That the model was created at this late date cannot be correct. A 'Mohr mit Pferd' is mentioned in the Brühl inventory (1753), and in June 1753 'un cheval de porcelaine de Saxe avec une figure à côté' is listed in Lazare-Duvaux's journal. The same year, the group was illustrated in a painting of the Dutch banker Thomas Hope (1704-1779) and two other merchants studying a variety of works of art, probably in pursuit of a new, costly and exotic purchase. Later, in the mid 1750s, it was the inspiration for groups produced by the English porcelain factory of Longton Hall.