A pair of Meissen ewers emblematic of 'Water' and 'Air' second half 19th century

after the eighteenth-century models of the Elements series by Johann Joachim Kändler, crossed swords marks in underglaze-blue, incised numerals 327, 51 or 320.

The 'Air' ewer: There are some restorations to the extremities with the overspray expanding further into the adjacent areas.The putto on the very top has been broken off from his neck and restored back; The bagpipe and the upper part of the handle appear to be covered with areas of overspray, possibly from the adjacent restorations; however there is no visible damage. The left leg of the female figure is broken off; the piece is now retained. The tip of the gilt stick in her right hand is restored. There is restoration to the peacock's head, which has possibly been off. The wind goddess on the right hand side of the vase blowing air has overspray overall; however, there is no apparent damage to the figure apart from a miniscule chip to her middle finger of her left hand. The putto affixed to the base of the base has his right hand restored. "The Water" ewer: The putto on the very top has restoration to his right hand. Poseidon's right hand and right foot are restored and there are some occasional chips to the tips of the leaves on his laurel crown. The brown horse has restoration to his head; the gray horse's right leg is restored; the tan-colored horse has a tiny chip to his right ear and the black horse has restoration both to his head and legs; these restorations probably cover chip/s or break/s. The tail near the horses has restoration. The two tails behind the mermaid are restored and one has a further 1/2-inch chip.
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.