THIS OBJECT WAS SOLD
Meissen Porcelain Monkey With Genitalia, "kunstkammer", Mid-18th Century
A profoundly important and masterfully executed hard-paste porcelain monkey, dating to the zenith of the Rococo period, circa 1750. This sculpture is a product of the prestigious Meissen manufactory, attributed to the circle of its most celebrated modeller, J.J. Kändler.
This piece is a testament to the alchemical nature of 18th-century porcelain production. Its authenticity is indelibly marked by period-correct firing cracks, visible on the base and body. These are not damages, but a fingerprint of obsolete technology—the result of imperfect heat distribution in early muffle kilns, a feature Meissen eliminated by the early 19th century. They are a guarantee of an 18th-century date.
What makes this figure extraordinarily rare and intended for a private collection is its shockingly explicit and naturalistic depiction of the monkey's genitals. In an era when porcelain was "white gold," and social decorum was paramount, presenting such a piece in a public salon would have been unthinkable. This proves the figure was created as a provocative object for a "Kunstkammer" (Cabinet of Curiosities) or a gentleman's private study, designed to spark discussion about nature, science, and social taboos
Furthering its mystique is the deliberately ground-down factory mark on its base. This act enriches its history, pointing to a fascinating past. The reasons for this in the 18th century were varied: often to sell the piece 'in the white' to an independent decorator (Hausmaler); sometimes for pieces gifted by the court outside of commercial sale; or even to avoid export tariffs. This mystery is part of its unique provenance.
Condition Report:
In honest, unrestored antique condition. There is a single, clean chip (loss of porcelain) to the tip of the left ear. The piece exhibits characteristic 18th-century firing cracks, which are not damages but proof of its age and authenticity.
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.
This piece is a testament to the alchemical nature of 18th-century porcelain production. Its authenticity is indelibly marked by period-correct firing cracks, visible on the base and body. These are not damages, but a fingerprint of obsolete technology—the result of imperfect heat distribution in early muffle kilns, a feature Meissen eliminated by the early 19th century. They are a guarantee of an 18th-century date.
What makes this figure extraordinarily rare and intended for a private collection is its shockingly explicit and naturalistic depiction of the monkey's genitals. In an era when porcelain was "white gold," and social decorum was paramount, presenting such a piece in a public salon would have been unthinkable. This proves the figure was created as a provocative object for a "Kunstkammer" (Cabinet of Curiosities) or a gentleman's private study, designed to spark discussion about nature, science, and social taboos
Furthering its mystique is the deliberately ground-down factory mark on its base. This act enriches its history, pointing to a fascinating past. The reasons for this in the 18th century were varied: often to sell the piece 'in the white' to an independent decorator (Hausmaler); sometimes for pieces gifted by the court outside of commercial sale; or even to avoid export tariffs. This mystery is part of its unique provenance.
Dimensions: Height: 20.7 cm, Width: 12 cm, Depth: 11 cm
Weight: 895 grams
Condition Report:
In honest, unrestored antique condition. There is a single, clean chip (loss of porcelain) to the tip of the left ear. The piece exhibits characteristic 18th-century firing cracks, which are not damages but proof of its age and authenticity.
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.
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