Ceramic Four Elements No. 48 Nude Figure Group from Derby, 1773

Details

Description

A rare Derby biscuit porcelain figure group representing Air from the celebrated Four Elements series. Produced under model number No. … Read more A rare Derby biscuit porcelain figure group representing Air from the celebrated Four Elements series. Produced under model number No. 48 and recorded in Derby factory documentation as early as 1773, the model is one of the most admired survivals of Georgian Derby porcelain.

The composition combines two winged putti, birds, a nest and a delicate birdcage arranged around a richly modelled tree. The group was assembled from numerous separately moulded components before firing, a labour-intensive process that required exceptional craftsmanship.

Production continued for approximately twenty-two years before the model was retired in 1795. Research based on Derby factory records indicates that total production may not have exceeded approximately three hundred examples.

The preservation of the cage, the bird inside and the birds at the top of the tree is particularly noteworthy. These vulnerable elements are rarely encountered intact and contribute significantly to the rarity and appeal of the piece.

Dimensions:

Height 22 cm
Width 9.5 cm
Depth 8.5 cm
Weight 503 g

Condition:

One wing of the boy is chipped. There are small chips to the leaves, and in the small nest at the top of the tree one of the three chicks has lost its head. Several very minor firing cracks from manufacture, barely visible; otherwise in good condition.

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