A Meissen figure of a pigeon on a nest circa 1732-35

modelled by J. J. Kändler, the plumage with crisply incised detail and picked out with blue and black bands of feathers, on a nest of tightly woven pale brown twigs and loose feathers (some restoration)

Christie's London, 9th July 1997, lot 350

edge of wing, beak and some nest material restored, chips 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."

Kändler's work report for October 1732 lists 'Eine Taube Welche auf einen Nest sitzet und brütet' [A dove who sits and broods on her nest].

The Royal Orders for the Japanese Palace for 26th November 1733 include 'Vögel, so in das Königli. Japanische Palais in die obere Etage der fördern Gallerie...An Vögeln 24 Tauben' [Birds, intended for the upper floor of the Front Gallery of the Royal Japanese Palace... Birds: 24 Doves]. Subsequently, two were delivered in 1733 (described as 'nach dem leben bemahlte' [painted from life]), four in 1734 and four more in 1735.  Two of this model of the bird on a nest are recorded as still present in the 1770 and 1779 inventories of the Tower Room; and six enamelled examples are listed as in the Royal Collection in 1900.

See the note to the preceding lot.

A figure of this model, together with one of the trumpeter pigeon, was included in the Maurice de Rothschild and Edmond de Rothschild collections as a pair, see Röbbig (2008), cat. no. 4.