Augustus the Strong (1670-1733), Elector of Saxony and King of Poland, revived The Order of The White Eagle of Poland in 1705 and The Star on the reverse of this box (illustrated opposite bottom right) undoubtedly represents this event. The Festival of The White Eagle was celebrated on 3rd August each year, the same day as the official observance of the King's birthday, when the Court held appropriate celebrations. With the strong representation of Poland on this box it is tempting to suggest that it was perhaps especially made for Augustus the Strong to commemorate the silver jubilee of the revival of The Order in 1730

Johann Gregor Herold had been Court Painter (Hofmaler) since 1723 and would have almost certainly painted this exceptional commission himself. It is interesting to note that the Arms are exactly the same as those on the 'Coronation Service' which Rainer Rückert in Meissener Porzellan, no. 453 suggests may not have been orginally intended for Augustus III but for Augustus the Strong

Estimate on request