BISCUIT CENTERPIECE, VOLKSTEDT-RUDOLSTADT MANUFACTURE, GERMANY

A large biscuit porcelain centerpiece comprising a fruit bowl and four jardinières. Its decoration is inspired by Bacchic iconography. The central bowl is adorned with two draped women in the classical style, circling the base. The openwork bowl is decorated with musical instruments, garlands of roses, and goat heads. The stepped base is enlivened with vine tendrils, garlands, and goat heads in relief. The jardinières—two rectangular and two curved—are surmounted by allegorical figures representing the four seasons. They are decorated around the rim with niches and goat heads. All the pieces of this centerpiece are numbered and bear the blue fork mark of the Volkstedt-Rudolstadt Manufactory (Thuringia, Germany). Late 19th century. Bowl: L: 39 cm, W: 30 cm, H: 37 cm Curved planters: L: 19 cm, W: 16 cm, H: 24 cm Rectangular planters: L: 24 cm, W: 9 cm, H: 22.5 cm Condition of the object This centerpiece is in good overall condition. An allegorical figure with some losses to the fingers, visible in the photos. Period: Late 19th century, Circa: 1890 Dimensions: L: cm, W: cm, H: 37 cm.