Preliminary identification
Photo reference
5 uploaded photos
Overview
A charming hand-painted hard-paste porcelain figurine depicting a crouching, semi-nude putto or Asian-inspired Cupid holding an ornate recurve bow. Modelled with delicate Rococo sensibility, subtle blush polychrome enamels, and floral sprays around the plinth, it bears incised mold numbers and an underglaze blue mark on the recessed underside.
Story
European aristocrats in the 18th century obsessed over Chinese art, inventing 'Chinoiserie' fantasies. This mischievous child archer merges classical Cupid lore with East Asian queue hairstyles to delight collectors.
Maker / Origin
While famous factories like Meissen and Volkstedt pioneered fine German porcelain sculpture, Thuringian ateliers in the 19th century specialized in reviving classic 18th-century Rococo and Chinoiserie models. Masters like J.J. Kändler created the original archetypes of whimsical cherubs and allegorical children that inspired generations of German porcelain artists.
Condition & Value
Significant break and loss to the upper section of the porcelain bow in the figure's hand. Surface glaze otherwise shows good gloss with minor shelf dirt around the unglazed foot rim. The damage reduces overall value by approximately 50-60%.
Full Research
Sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance pulled from recent auction results.
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Comparable demand stays strongest where maker, originality, and venue confidence line up. Broader examples still trade, but the range tightens quickly when provenance, condition, or selling lane fit is missing.
Best Venue
Specialty auction or a focused dealer with buyers already in this lane.
Signed example with light edge wear and original frame.
Comparable format with stronger provenance and cleaner surface.
Smaller related piece with visible craquelure and trimmed margins.
Period match with softer condition and weaker subject matter.
Close market lane comp with similar material and presentation.