Antique Derby Figure: Air, One of the Four Elements,c. 1756-1765,Very Rare

Here is a very rare of Derby figure: Air, one of the four elements of the Four Elements: Earth, Air, Fire and Water. Thise antique porcelain figure were made around 1756-1765 - the so-called Patch Period. You can see the Marks on the bases of early soft paste Derby figures indicate the points where supports were used to prevent the porcelain from sticking during the firing of the glaze.

The Classical Elements are one way that ancient philosophers and scientists understood the composition of the universe. Interest in these and other ancient beliefs had a resurgence in the Neoclassical revival of the 18th century, and in particular in artistic and literary forms. Like most porcelain factories, Derby also made sets of allegorical figures to illustrate other classical personifications: the Four Seasons, the Four Quarters of the Globe, the Arts, the Muses, etc. the decoration of the clothing is in the early Derby pastel palette with European flowers added in complementary colors. In the standard reference book on Derby figures, Peter Bradshaw’s “Derby Porcelain Figures,” this very set is illustrated in a black and white photograph as the example for the Four Elements. The description in that book reads: “ The Four Elements (four figures) 9—9-1/2 inches tall. Air: a bareheaded lady holding a bird cage; Earth, a gardener leaning upon a spade with fruits and flowers; Fire, a youth standing beside a flaming urn beside a cannon—adapted from the figure representing War; Water, a bareheaded lady stands with a creel at her feet and holds a fish—[perhaps] adapted from a Bow model, Venus with Doves. Sotheby’s New York.”

Condition: the bird in the right hand is missing and chip to part of the leaves is visible in the back. There is also a small chip on the right side of the dress. Minor losses to leaves, some leaf tips around the edges of the bocage have chips. Otherwise excellent condition, excellent preservation of the figurine and paints.

Individual examples of the Four Elements are very rare, what we see here is the dream of any collector.

Weight 848 g

Height 24 cm

Sold in the condition as shown in the description and photos. Please carefully regard all photos and make any queries before bidding.