Fürstenberg Blanc-de-chine Porcelain Drummer Boy Figure, C.1760

This rare and moving 18th-century porcelain figure depicts a barefoot young drummer, seated on a broken bass drum with a bent mallet and empty dish at his side – symbols of hardship and public begging. Modelled in Blanc-de-Chine style and attributed to the Fürstenberg manufactory around 1760, the piece reveals an unusually empathetic portrayal of poverty in Rococo sculpture.

His weary expression, slumped posture, and torn costume evoke a poignant story. These details, including the sagging ribbon and distorted drumstick, were all intentionally sculpted to emphasise struggle rather than decorative beauty.

Although unsigned, the modelling and porcelain quality closely align with Fürstenberg’s mid-18th-century output. The factory, founded in 1747 under Duke Carl I, quickly became known for narrative-driven genre figures inspired by French and German popular scenes.

Dimensions: H 13.4 in. (34 cm), W 7.1 in. (18 cm), weight 3.55 lbs (1609 g).
Condition: minor chip to base, firing flaw on mallet, chipped ribbon.

Please study the accompanying photographs carefully as they form an integral part of this description. If you have any questions, we will be happy to answer them. The item will be shipped with full tracking and insurance. It is important to note that shipping costs include labour, packaging and postage.