Meissen Porcelain Figure Bacchus with Grapes, Wine Jug, Late 19th/ Early 20th C

Details

Description

Meissen Porcelain Figure of Bacchus with Grapes and Wine Jug, Late 19th–Early 20th Century

Measurements:
5" high x 3.5" wide … Read more Meissen Porcelain Figure of Bacchus with Grapes and Wine Jug, Late 19th–Early 20th Century

Measurements:
5" high x 3.5" wide x 2.5" deep

Description
A finely modeled Meissen porcelain figure of Bacchus (Dionysus), depicted as a youthful nude male draped in a fur-lined purple cloak, holding a bunch of grapes aloft and leaning on a gilt thyrsus (staff). At his side rests a large rococo-style wine jug, painted with delicate floral reserves and highlighted in gold. The figure stands on a scroll-molded base enriched with gilt accents, continuing Meissen’s celebrated Rococo tradition.

The underside bears the Meissen crossed swords mark in underglaze blue, along with impressed and painted model numbers (7663 and painter’s marks), dating the piece to the late 19th–early 20th century.

Historical Context
Meissen’s sculptors, most notably Johann Joachim Kaendler in the 18th century, established a rich repertoire of mythological and allegorical figures. Bacchic subjects were especially popular, embodying abundance, festivity, and the pleasures of wine. Throughout the 19th century, the manufactory reissued and reinterpreted these models for collectors seeking refined mythological décor in the Rococo revival taste.

Condition
Overall excellent condition with strong glaze and gilding.

The gilt thyrsus (staff) shows signs of an older restoration or regilding, professionally executed and only visible on close inspection.

No visible losses to fingers, grapes, or base.
Expected light wear to gilding consistent with age.

This is a charming late 19th–early 20th century Meissen porcelain figure of Bacchus, with grapes, a wine jug, and a gilt staff, marked with the crossed swords. A highly decorative mythological subject in excellent condition, with only a discreet older restoration to the staff, making it both a collectible and a display-ready example of Meissen’s enduring artistry. See less