A finely modelled soft-paste porcelain figure of a boy singer, standing in theatrical attire—hat, jacket and breeches—holding a song-sheet in his left hand while conducting with his right. The graceful posture and gesture capture the mid-18th-century English taste for sentimental and genre scenes. Executed in Bow’s characteristic soft-paste body with delicate polychrome enameling, this example belongs to the factory’s later phase, when literary and theatrical subjects were especially prized.
Underneath are two authentic factory marks: a red “anchor & dagger” and an underglaze-blue “crescent,” both used by Bow between 1760 and 1775. A small square vent hole at the back of the base is original to the firing process. Documented in Peter Bradshaw’s authoritative monograph Bow Porcelain Figures, circa 1748–1774 (No. B5, p. 169), this rare piece measures 15.5 cm high, 11 cm wide and 10 cm deep, weighing 304 g.
Condition is excellent for its age: a feather on the hat shows probable early restoration; minor chips on leaves and flowers; a small firing crack at the base; and slight losses of gilding and enamel consistent with long-term survival. A fine and rare example of Bow sculpture, with strong collector appeal.
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. It is important to note that shipping costs include labour, packaging and postage.
Antique Number: SA1141793
Dateline of this antique is 18th Century
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