A decorative porcelain group produced by the Aelteste Volkstedter Porzellanmanufaktur in the tradition of late Rococo. The composition depicts a romantic encounter between a gardener and a shepherdess amid fruit and flowers.
Seated beside a basket filled with the gathered harvest, the young man offers his beloved a bunch of grapes. The maiden leans trustingly towards him, holding clusters of grapes upon her lap, symbolising mature affection, fertility and mutual devotion. At the couple’s feet rests a spotted dog, traditionally associated with fidelity, vigilance and the guardianship of virtue. A discarded hat, flowers, the basket and the naturalistically modelled surface of the base enhance the narrative character of the scene.
The composition is distinguished by its complex spatial arrangement, the fluid interweaving of the figures and the expressive rendering of their gestures. The delicate hand-painted polychrome decoration combines turquoise, lilac, yellow and floral tones. The oval stepped base is ornamented with a gilt decorative frieze. The group is executed in the Rococo style characteristic of European pastoral porcelain sculpture.
Marks: Blue underglaze manufactory mark of the Aelteste Volkstedter Porzellanmanufaktur to the underside.
Dimensions: Height 23 cm. Width 23 cm. Depth 18 cm.
Condition: Good condition. Minor signs of age and natural darkening to the underside of the base.
The condition report is provided for informational purposes only.
It is not comprehensive and may not reflect all defects, restorations, alterations, or adaptations, as Antiqon does not perform professional conservation-level assessments. The information is based on a qualified, yet subjective, evaluation by our specialists.Before purchasing, we recommend consultation with an independent expert.Please also consult our Terms and conditions and Glossary A-Z, which contain important information on lot characteristics and sale conditions.
