A rare Meissen commedia dell'arte figure the porcelain circa 1725, the decoration slightly later

modelled standing with his right leg forward on a stepped rectangular base. Right arm repaired, lower left arm and stick missing, prior to glazing and decoration.

Sold, Sotheby's, London, April 1, 1952, lot 22;
Sold, Sotheby's, London, May 23, 1967, lot 110;
Sold, Sotheby's, London, February 5, 1974, lot 101

Lower part of left arm and stick he would have held are missing in the firing. His right arm is broken above the elbow and re-affixed there and where his hand joins his stomach. Restored chip to left hand edge of hat brim. Restored chip to back of right corner of base.
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.

The identity of the figure, which has variously been given as Harlequin, Scaramouche or Beltrame, is suggested by Meredith Chilton, Harlequin Unmasked, p. 292, to be "most likely the Captain". Chilton illustrates an Augsburg-decorated example and references approximately eleven other known models, which include examples in the white, with Augsburg-type gilt decoration and with later enamel decoration.  One other example, offered at Christie's, London, June 28, 1982, lot 82, also has the lower left arm missing.