A Meissen squirrel teapot circa 1735-37

modelled by J. J. Kändler, as a seated brown and white squirrel, nibbling an acorn which forms the spout, wearing a gilt-edged puce collar applied wth gilt bells terminating in a yellow flower, its curved tail forming the handle, crossed swords mark in underglaze-blue (some restoration)

Christie's New York, 23rd April 1998, lot 229

restoration to yellow flower and to top third of tail. Spout has been reduced. Some wear to gilt bells on collar. Minor nicks to leaves of acorn
"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 recorded 'a small squirrel' as early as 1733, and in May, 1735: '1 Eich Hörngen ingestalt eines Thee Krügels mit zweierlei Schwänzen gefertiget, in das eine giesst man oben den Thee zum Schwantze hinein, in das andere aber zu der Band Schleife welche am Halsband mit Schellen befindlich' [1 squirrel completed in the form of a teapot with two different tails, in the first one the tea is poured from above through the tail, in the other through the ribbon tie which is found on the collar with bells]. The present example is of the latter model. Teapots with tail apertures are illustrated by Rückert (1966), no. 1147; and Albiker (1959), no. 223.