Lovers with a Birdcage

Johann Joachim Kändler|Meissen Manufactory

December 1737 · Hard-paste porcelain · European Sculpture and Decorative Arts

As was the case with many of its porcelain sculptures, Du Paquier’s Lovers with a Birdcage was inspired by a Meissen model. The modeler at Meissen, Johann Joachim Kaendler, is thought to have been inspired, in turn, by an engraving from the series A Rake’s Progress by William Hogarth (1697–1764). Du Paquier’s porcelain scuptures are charmingly sturdy rather than elegant; nevertheless, they were considered worthy of the finest decoration, as can be seen here in the gentleman’s gold brocade coat and matching breeches.

Artist

Johann Joachim Kändler|Meissen Manufactory

Date

December 1737

Medium

Hard-paste porcelain

Culture

German, Meissen

Department

European Sculpture and Decorative Arts

Credit line

The Jack and Belle Linsky Collection, 1982