An exceptionally rare Derby biscuit porcelain figure group representing Air from the famous Four Elements series. Issued under model number No. 48 and documented in the Derby Sale Catalogue of February 1773, the model is among the most celebrated sculptural productions of eighteenth-century Derby.The composition centres on two winged putti, a birdcage, nesting birds and a finely modelled tree. Every leaf, bird and decorative element was produced separately and assembled by hand before firing. Derby workshops referred to this demanding process as repairing, and the construction of a single group could occupy a skilled craftsman for several days.The model remained in production for approximately twenty-two years before being retired in 1795 when Derby replaced the original series with a new set of Four Elements groups. Research based upon factory records published by John Haslam suggests that total production may not have exceeded approximately three hundred examples.The rema...