CHERUB AWAITING A RENDEZVOUS. KPM BERLIN. CIRCA 1870

An engaging porcelain figure of a cherub portrayed as a young gallant officer awaiting an appointed rendezvous. The winged figure wears a pale green coat with gilt decoration, a white shirt and purple breeches. His tricorn hat and sword have been placed beside a grass-covered tree stump that also supports the figure.

In his raised right hand, the cherub holds a pocket watch, impatiently checking the time. His left hand rests expressively upon his hip, while his gaze, directed towards the viewer, conveys mild bewilderment and comic irritation at his beloved’s lateness. The white wings with gilt details emphasise the figure’s mythological identity, while the officer’s attire and familiar gesture transform the traditional image of Cupid into a witty gallant scene.

The composition is conceived in the Neo-Rococo spirit and draws upon the artistic language of eighteenth-century European porcelain figures, combining pastoral artifice, theatrical gesture and subtle courtly humour. The figure is distinguished by refined modelling, delicate polychrome decoration and restrained gilding.

Marks: The underside of the base bears the underglaze blue sceptre mark of the manufactory and an overglaze red orb mark of the painting department with the letters “KPM”. Additional painted and impressed numerical inscriptions are present. The blue sceptre is the historic manufactory mark of the Royal Porcelain Manufactory Berlin, while the red orb was used on polychrome-decorated figures.

Dimensions: Height: 11 cm. Width: 5.5 cm.

Material: Porcelain; moulding, glazing, polychrome overglaze decoration and gilding.

Condition: Good condition. Minor traces of age and use, localised wear to the gilding and superficial soiling.