A Meissen figure of a mallard duck circa 1740

probably modelled by J. J. Kändler, with soft brown head, a blaze of purple on his chest, the wings edged in purple and black, standing amongst colourful reeds on a mound base, crossed swords mark in underglaze-blue (cracked and some repairs)

Silvio Ferrara, Rome, bearing paper collection label
Christie's London, 17th October 1985, lot 117

London, Asprey, no. 9. 

cracked through back, re-stuck and repaired
"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."

Rückert (1966), p. 273, no. 1112, illustrates an example and suggests that it was probably modelled by Kändler. A pair of these rare figures sold in the Rockefeller sale, Sotheby's New York, 11th October 2005, lot 206, and another pair, now in the Metropolitan Museum New York, is illustrated in Dauterman (1970), p. 86, nos. 39A and B. Single examples were sold at Christie's, 7th October 1985, lot 117; and at Christie's, 1st June 1992, lot 78.