Mockery of Age

Manufacturer Meissen Porcelain Manufactory (German, founded 1710)

Modeler Johann Joachim Kändler (German, 1706 - 1775)

CultureGerman

OriginMeissen, Dresden, Germany

Datec.1740-1741; decorated in the nineteenth or twentieth century

MediumHard-paste porcelain with overglaze enamels, gilding

DimensionsOverall: 19.1 x 20.6 cm (7 1/2 x 8 1/8 in.)

MarkingsCrossed swords in underglaze blue

DescriptionMeissen group is mounted on its original Louis XV Ormolu base which is scrolled and pierced. The subject depicts an aging gentleman caressing a young lady whilst a Harlequin mocks from behind. The gentleman is wearing atop his brown hair a tall white hat, a pale brown coat opened to reveal a white shirt, blue knee breeches, white hose and orange shoes. He is seated and leans on a knarled stick. Her right arm is around his shoulders and is about to kiss him on the cheek. Her dress is a full crinoline with brilliant yellow skirt decorated with Asian-inspired flowers in multicolour. She wears an orange bodice with black 'V', low necked blouse with three quarter length sleeves. On her lap is a brown and white mongrel which she is holding with her right arm. The Harlequin is standing on his left leg, his right one raised in front and is holding aloft in each hand an orange and white feather. His jacket has four panels, one turquoise, one yellow and two white scattered with playing cards. The sleeves of his jacket are also in four panels, two puce, green and white stripes, one yellow and one white. On his head a light brown hat. His trousers are brandy coloured and he has shoes with yellow bow knots.

Credit LineGift of George and Helen Gardiner

Object numberG83.1.942

Classifications

European Ceramics

Sub-classification

German Porcelain

Collections

Status

On view