A pair of Meissen models of cats circa 1736

modelled by J. J. Kändler,  one facing right with black markings, holding a mouse to its mouth, the other with brown markings and with right paw raised to its eye, each seated on an oval mound base applied with flowers, mounted on later German gilt-bronze foliate bases (minor restoration)

William Redford, London, 28th July 1982

London, Asprey, nos. 7A and B

Cat with mouse: restoration to tail of mouse. Chips to one ear of mouse, minor chip to claw of cat's left paw. Minor chips to flowers and leaves. some minor flaking to enamel. Other cat: restoration to left ear. Minor chips to flowers and leaves.
"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 records for September 1736 mention '2 Stück Kleine Katzgen aufs Lager in Thon poussiert, davon eine sitzend, die andere aber, wie sie eine Maus im Moule hat, vorgestelit ist.' [2 small cats modelled in clay for the warehouse, of which one is seated, but the other, presented as if it has a mouse in its mouth]. The model of the cat with the mouse is illustrated by Albiker (1959), no. 216. While universally popular, cat figures seem to have been particularly fashionable on the French market, a watercolour having been designed by the factory for the Parisian marchand-mercier Michel-Joseph Lair and the other marchand-mercier Lazare-Duvaux provided to 'Monsieur Le Premier' [Principle equerry to the King] in December 1752 'deux chats de Saxe' (entry no. 1284).