A PAIR OF MEISSEN PAINTED PORCELAIN STREET MUSICIANS, MAIDEN WITH HURLEY GURLEY AND YOUTH WITH BAGPIPES, UNDERGLAZE BLUE MARK, INCISED AND IMPRESSED NUMBERS, SECOND HALF 19TH CENTURY, the maiden modeled wearing a floral scarf and torn apron over a long dress while holding a broken stringed instrument, standing on a stylized groundwork base above "C" scroll and rocaille detailed sides, reversing to an underside with underglaze blue crossed swords mark, incised "1352"; the youth wearing a misshapen tricorn hat and torn floral waistcoat concealing his wine bottle above torn knee britches, standing on a similarly modeled and detailed base, reversing to an underside with underglaze blue crossed swords mark above a single horizontal incised short line mark, impressed "83" and incised "1351" over "129," each height: 13". NOTE: Meissen started a quality grading system in November of 1850 (continuing to the end of the 19th century) for groups, figures, and vases considered substandard and therefor not for sale in its regular venues. This was accomplished by incising after the overglaze had cooled, a short single horizontal line below the blue crossed swords mark.

The maiden is in overall good condition with a small repair on the bottom right corner of the apron. The youth's hat has been repaired and the lower section of the pipe is lacking. His hands have been professionally restored.

Simpson Galleries strongly encourages in-person inspection of items by the bidder. Statements by Simpson Galleries regarding the condition of objects are for guidance only and should not be relied upon as statements of fact and do not constitute a representation, warranty, or assumption of liability by Simpson Galleries. All lots offered are sold "AS IS."