A rare Meissen figure of a rhinoceros circa 1745

probably modelled by J. J. Kändler, standing open-mouthed, its coat painted in shades of brown (some restoration) 

Christie's Geneva, 16th November 1992, lot 103

restoration to legs, extremities and snout
"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."

A similar smaller example is illustrated by Albiker (1959), no.176. This figure exists in various sizes: the earliest and largest one was modelled by Gottlieb Kirchner in 1731 after an engraving by Albrecht Dürer. For examples of this early model see Pietsch (2006), pp. 126-127, no. 177. It also exists in a medium size with a sultan on its back, forming a pair with a figure of an elephant, (see lot 91). The same print source was also used for the rhinoceros painted on two serving pieces in the Duke of Northumberland service, circa 1745, at Alnwick Castle, one of which was a tureen stand exhibited in Washington, D. C. at the National Gallery of Art, Treasure Houses of Britain, 3rd November 1985-13th April 1986, and illustrated, with its tureen and cover, by T. H. Clarke, 'Pachyderms Among Peonies, The Northumberland Service at Alnwick Castle', Country Life, 24th October 1985, p. 1178, and by Cassidy-Geiger (2007), p. 284, fig. 12-14.