Antique Meissen Rococo Hebe & Ganymede Candlesticks - a Pair

Details

Description

A scarce pair of magnificent Meissen polychrome and partial gilt porcelain candlesticks, inspired by Greek mythology, exquisitely hand-crafted in Rococo … Read more A scarce pair of magnificent Meissen polychrome and partial gilt porcelain candlesticks, inspired by Greek mythology, exquisitely hand-crafted in Rococo taste, Germany, 19th century.

The stunning, exceptionally executed, very fine quality antique porcelain single light candelabra prominently displays the exquisite detail for which Meissen is renowned. Modeled as figures of Ganymede and of Hebe, the two cupbearers to the gods, the cheif of the Olympian gods, Zeus, transformed as a gilded eagle, over grapevine adorned stem formed as a palm tree with foliate candle holder, rising on circular foot. Signed underfoot.
German; circa 1860

Marks:
Crossed swords in underglaze blue; and incised model number: K. 49, 28

Provenance:
Property from an important La Jolla, California collector

Acquisition:
Acquired from reputable auction house Heritage Auctions, Dallas, Texas. January 2022 Fine & Decorative Arts Showcase Auction, Catalog #13181, Item #27176

Dimensions: (each)
11.5" High, 7.25", 6.25"
(29.2 x 18.4 x 15.9 cm)

Condition Report:
Excellent original antique condition. Presents splendidly. Minor flakes to applied petals, overall wear indicative of age.

Founded in the early 18th century, the Meissen factory was the first European ceramics manufacturer to produce "true" or hard-paste porcelain and remained unrivaled in terms of innovation and beauty for decades. Though the formula for hard-paste porcelain gradually found its way across Europe, the Royal Manufactory at Meissen continued to produce some of the finest porcelain works the world had ever seen.

Outstanding specimens, highly sought-after, collectible, and wonderfully decorative, the fanciful sculptural works are sure to be the highlight of any collection! See less