Two Figurines of actors

18th century

Two white porcelain figurines (German, 18th century) made by the Nymphenburg Porcelain Manufactory (1747-present) after models by Franz Anton Bustelli (Swiss, 1723-1763). The figurines depict actors from Commedia dell’Arte, Italian comic street theatre. The figure on the left (.1) is Anselmo, an amalgamation of several characters from Commedia dell’Arte, he wears a cape and holds a cane in his right hand, his left is upraised to indicate whispering. The figure on the right (.2) is Pantaloon, a rich Venetian merchant, who is depicted as a thin, older man, with pointy features, his hands are tucked under his cloak to hold onto his money bags hidden there. The figures are impressed on the underside with the Nymphenburg shield mark. The figures stand on a black painted wooden base.

German

hard paste porcelain

.1 = 5.75" x 2.5" x 3.125"

.2 = 5.5" x 3.125" x 2.375"

Bequest of Mrs. Henry D. Sharpe.

PSNC.26.1 - .2