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Lot Essay
The present group is related in theme to the tradesmen figures produced at Meissen after models by J.J. Kändler, P. Reinicke, their poses and clothing after contemporary artists. These figures were produced in series related to different cities - the Paris Traders series after drawings by Edmé Bouchardon, the Cris de Paris series modeled by Kändler after drawings by Cristophe Hüet (died 1759), the London Criers after Marcellus Laroon (1653-1702), and Russian Traders.
The present group takes the concept one step further, posing the figures in the context of doing their job, rather than just as standing figures holding an attribute. The small pan and cover resting under the vat can be easily pulled out, its cover removed and a small candle placed inside. The 'hops' in the barrel can also be removed and the vat filled with pastilles or inscense ready to release its perfume upon contact with the heat from below.
The small pan and the gilt-bronze figure are replacments dating from the early 19th century. At the time these repairs were made, the whole was regilt in order that the color could tone in more easily.
The present group takes the concept one step further, posing the figures in the context of doing their job, rather than just as standing figures holding an attribute. The small pan and cover resting under the vat can be easily pulled out, its cover removed and a small candle placed inside. The 'hops' in the barrel can also be removed and the vat filled with pastilles or inscense ready to release its perfume upon contact with the heat from below.
The small pan and the gilt-bronze figure are replacments dating from the early 19th century. At the time these repairs were made, the whole was regilt in order that the color could tone in more easily.