An elegant porcelain figure produced by the Royal Porcelain Manufactory Berlin, Königliche Porzellan-Manufaktur (KPM), representing the Allegory of Air from the celebrated series The Four Elements. Executed in the Rococo style, the composition reflects one of the most admired themes of European porcelain sculpture, widely appreciated in aristocratic interiors throughout the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries.
The group depicts a young shepherd dressed in refined pastoral costume carrying a goat smoking a long pipe. The unusual subject combines theatrical grace with the wit characteristic of Rococo decorative art. The rising smoke from the pipe serves as a symbolic representation of the element of air, while the goat evokes the idyllic pastoral imagery inspired by the Arcadian tradition of classical antiquity.
The sculpture demonstrates exceptional modelling quality. The figures are rendered with remarkable anatomical precision, expressive facial features and naturally flowing drapery. The finely executed hand-painted polychrome decoration harmoniously combines violet, yellow, green and ochre tones, enhanced with delicate gilding. The asymmetrical rocaille base reinforces the sculptural dynamism and reflects the decorative vocabulary of the Rococo period.
Comparable allegorical figures were conceived as complete sets representing the Four Elements and were intended to adorn mantelpieces, console tables and formal reception rooms of European residences. Today, KPM porcelain sculptures of this type are highly sought after by collectors of European porcelain for their artistic excellence, historical significance and association with one of Germany`s most prestigious porcelain manufactories.
Marks: Underglaze blue Königliche Porzellan-Manufaktur Berlin (KPM) factory mark.
Dimensions: Height: 22 cm. Width: 12 cm.
Condition: Good condition. Minor traces of age and handling consistent with the period. The original polychrome decoration and gilding remain well preserved.
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.
