Lot Essay
Many of the animals, birds and fish were used to decorate grand
banqueting tables in the early 18th century. When not in use on the
table, such figures served to embellish the mantelshelf, cabinet or
secretaire (see portrait of Baron de Besenvalon, page ?). Really precious porcelain would be kept in the cabinet of curiosities in the lady's dressing room or closet, where such rarities served for entertainment to while away the evenings.
banqueting tables in the early 18th century. When not in use on the
table, such figures served to embellish the mantelshelf, cabinet or
secretaire (see portrait of Baron de Besenvalon, page ?). Really precious porcelain would be kept in the cabinet of curiosities in the lady's dressing room or closet, where such rarities served for entertainment to while away the evenings.