A RARE MEISSEN LARGE SWAN TUREEN AND COVER circa 1773

modelled by J. J. Kändler, with finely incised white plumage, the wings picked out in brown and grey, holding a trail of weeds in its open beak, the details of the eyes and beak picked out in strong tones of red and black, crossed swords mark in underglaze-blue (minor chips)

The Property of H. J. Joel Esq. removed from Childwickbury, Hertfordshire, Christie's London, 3rd July 1978, lot 72

Cover- two chips to the rim at breast. minor losses to the weed. Tureen- minor chips and nicks to the rim.
"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."

One of the last entries in Kändler's work records from December 1773 reads: 'Eine große Terrine in Gestalt eines Schwanes inventiret and modelliert. Est ist diese Terrine von zierlicher Größe, der Schwan sitzet, und siehet sich mit vieler Lebhaftigkeit um, sperret seine Flügel ein wenig vom Leibe abwärts, welche den Durchschnitt des Deckels sehr fein bedeken, darbey... daß solche paarweise auf einer Tafel einer gegen den anderen aussehen, indem zweyerley Hälße darzu modelliert werden.' [A large tureen in the form of a swan created and modelled. It is this tureen of modest size that the swan is seated and is looking around with much liveliness, slightly closing his wings from his body downwards, which finely covers the junction of the vessel, at the manufactory... a similar pair on a table facing each other, both necks modelled thereto.]
Similar examples were sold in these rooms on 24th November 1998, lot 305, and on 15th April 1997, lot 91.