Bidspirit auction | Meissen Commedia Dell'Arte Columbine Dancing

Meissen Commedia Dell'Arte Columbine Dancing - Meissen, Germany. Modelled by J.J. Kandler and P.J. Reinicke for the Duke of Weissenfels. Commedia Dell'Arte porcelain figurine of Columbine dancing, ca. 1744. Modelled standing in a gilt-edged white hat and bodice with a yellow floral skirt, on a floral encrusted base. Trace blue crossed swords mark. Provenance: Christie's, London, ”The Nyffeler Collection of German Porcelain, ” June 9, 1986, Lot 56; The Distinguished Collection of Leo & Doris Hodroff. The figures from the Commedia Dell'Arte series represent characters from the Italian Commedia dell'arte, a type of improvised comic drama or street theater popular in Europe. The figurines in this series were primarily modelled in the 1730s-1740s by Kandler as well as Peter Reinicke. Kandler's probable attendance at performances appears in his characteristically expressive facial features and the theatrical vitality of the engaging figures. It is these features that made them highly popular both when they were first released through to the present day. Columbine is often depicted pursued by Harlequin or as a love interest of Pierrot. Height: 5 1/2 in x width: 2 1/2 in x depth: 2 3/4 in. Condition: The figure's nose and some small spots along the rim of her hat have been restored. Small loss to one of the foliate elements along the base. Light wear to the underside.