Object Description
Pair of antique Meissen porcelain figures of Malabar musicians
German, Late 19th Century
Woman: Height 33cm, width 13cm, depth 11cm
Man: Height 32cm, width 20cm, depth 11cm
Expertly crafted in the late 19th century by the artists at Meissen, the figures depict a charming pair of Malabar musicians. The design of this pair is after models by Friedrich Elias Meyer (German 1723–1785), an artist at Meissen.
The figure of a lady is playing the hurdy-gurdy and the moustached man the guitar. Both figures are wearing a pale straw hat, their bodies covered by a maroon-coloured and fur lined jacket. These cover a pale blue tunic worn over polychrome, patterned clothing. Blue shoes adorn the man’s feet while the lady wears pink footwear of a similar design. Polychrome cloth is wrapped around the bodies; on the man around his waist with a box attached, and across the upper body on the lady too with a box attached to the reverse. Both figures are of a similar design making them a remarkable pair to display.
The figures stand on rocaille bases with gilt detailing. Each figure is marked on the underside with the iconic Meissen crossed swords mark in underglaze blue alongside incised ‘1519’ and ‘1523’ as well as other impressed marks.
Of an interesting design and crafted by some of the best porcelain makers of the 19th century, this pair of figures would be a wonderful addition to one’s collection.