Important Meissen Chinoiserie Centerpiece w/ Rooster Heads, by J.J. Kändler

Description

Important and Large Meissen Porcelain Chinoiserie Centerpiece with Rooster Heads, Model by Johann Joachim Kändler (Saxony [now Germany], 1706–1775).

 The centerpiece is formed as a four-legged open basket with scrolled supports, each terminating in paw-like feet enriched with gilded details. Rising at the center is a pierced, fan-shaped crest. At both ends, large rooster heads project outward with modeled beaks, feathered combs, and expressive eyes. Their plumage is painted in white with accents of purple and red, and further heightened with gilding. Beneath each bird, clusters of applied porcelain flowers extend outward, accompanied by foliage and blossoms painted in naturalistic colors. Along the sides, the body is decorated with scrolling gilt ornament punctuated by pendant jewel-like enamel drops in shades of red, set against the white porcelain ground. At the front of the structure, two chinoiserie figures are seated as part of the composition. One figure wears a yellow hat and a red drape over a floral-patterned costume, while the companion figure, bearded and dresses in floral robes tied with a red sash. Their robes are detailed with scattered floral sprays, painted in purple and gold. The figures are modeled in animated positions, with carefully defined faces and costumes that extend outward from the body of the centerpiece. The integration of these figures with the supporting structure emphasizes the sculptural nature of the centerpiece. The model originates from Johann Joachim Kändler, principal modeler at the Meissen manufactory, and was created as part of the service designed for Count Heinrich von Brühl, who served as both prime minister to Augustus III and administrator of the Royal Saxon Porcelain Manufactory. Brühl’s service incorporated richly decorated works combining sculptural and painted elements, of which this centerpiece is an example. The hard-paste porcelain is formed with cast and applied sections, further decorated with polychrome enamels and gilding that required multiple firings. The underside is marked with the Meissen crossed swords in underglaze blue, identifying its production at the manufactory.

Details

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