A PAIR OF CHINAMEN (INCENSE BURNERS)

Bohemia, Prague (Smíchov), K. k. priv. Porzellan- u. Steingutfabrik von Kriegel & Co., 1842–1852
A pair of grotesque figures of laughing bald Chinamen seated on low stools, with hands clasped on their knees. White porcelain, brightly painted over the glaze, shaded flesh tones, gilded. The figurines are hollow, with open mouths; one retains the original stopper for the opening at the top of the head. Publ.: Ant. Novotný, Pražský porcelán (ze sbírek Muzea hl. města Prahy), Prague 1949, pl. 8, inv. no. 20.326. According to Novotný, this is one of the earliest figurines modelled in Prague, reflecting the former popularity of chinoiserie. H. 10 cm, resp. 9,5 cm. Impressed marks "K & C PRAG", brush marks. Condition B-C. The second figurine has been restored in the area of the lower edge of the garment and the seat.