A rare pair of Meissen pale green-ground card-shaped candlesticks 1876

after the Chelsea-Derby models, one molded in the shape of a diamond, the other a spade, each painted on one side with three Royal playing cards of the relevant suite and on the other with a bird emblem in gilding, crossed swords marks in underglaze-blue, impressed 1876 L in a square, one inscribed with 'Aufschliefslich angefertigt für S. Litchfield in London' in black script.

In good condition.
In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective qualified opinion.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.

Samuel Litchfield was the manager of one of the leading showrooms in London in the last quarter of the 19th century, 'The Dresden Gallery', located on 28 and 30 Hanway Street, Oxford Street, which sold porcelain and luxury goods of the Royal Saxony Manufactory. A similar pair of candlesticks was sold at Bonham's London, May 16, 2007, lot 263 and another at Christie's New York, May 31, 2000, lot 285.