A Meissen model of Count Brühl's tailor, second half 19th century

After the 18th century model by J.J. Kändler, brightly painted seated astride a goat, wearing a sheathed ruler and tailor's accoutrements, the goat with a pair of scissors and an iron hanging from its horns, crossed swords mark in underglaze-blue, impressed 101, incised 107,

In very good condition. There is a small flat chip to the front right hoof of the goat. A very small crack in the goat's forelock is probably a minor firing fault.
"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."

Count Heinrich von Brühl (1700-1763) was Minister of the Interior of Saxony for August III. He was appointed Director of the Meissen factory in 1733 and held the position until his death. By tradition the Count's ambitious tailor requested an invitation to dine at court. In response and to put him in his place, the Count requested Kändler to make a figure of the tailor so that he could place him at the dining table.

The fame of the group extended into the 19th century. An example was exhibited at the Great Exhibition, in 1851 and described by John Tallis, History and description of the Crystal palace, and the Exhibition of the world's industry, (Band 1), 1851, p.153:

'The grotesque figures and groups of Dresden porcelain have always been admired for their execution, if not for their style. The costumes are especially admirable, and the representation of fine work, such as lace, truly wonderful. Some specimens of this were seen in the Exhibition. One of the grotesque pieces which obtained most celebrity, and was familiar to all amateurs, was the famous tailor of the Count de Bruhl, a figure which was remarkable for the difficulty of its execution, owing to the numerous accessories it included. The figure of the tailor was represented riding on a goat surrounded with all the implements and appendages of his trade, and was about 20 inches in height'