A LARGE and EXTREMELY RARE Meissen figure of a Bolognese Spaniel, C.1745 modelled by J. J. Kandler. Although I have seen this popular model before, it is usually found in later Meissen and many smaller. Even when I have seen an original by Kandler, then they have never been marked to the bottom of the base like this with tiny early crossed swords. On the Kandler figures from the mid 18th century, the swords were mostly put on the rear of the base Exactly like this figure. Thereby confirming the date as pre 1760.

SIZE:- 7 1/2 ins high by 8 1/2 ins across.

CONDITION :- EXCELLENT for one of these extremely vulnerable figures. An original leg at the front has been restuck as seen in photo. On the same leg, the ends of 3 of his toes have been restored. This all deserves further restoration which would not be too expensive.

PROVENANCE:- The collection of Sir Gawaine and Lady Baillie The Count Alcario Palmieri Collection, sale Christies London 28/3/96 lot 7.

See Kandler's Taxa 1740/4 for a Pair of these dogs.

For a simmilar single dog see Carl Albiker, Die Meissener Porzellantierre im 18 cent Berlin 1959 no's 187/88

Other provenance:- With Davide Sestieri - Rome.