A GERMAN FAYENCE SMALL DUCK TUREEN AND COVER LATE 18TH CENTURY

probably Künersberg, inventory numbers No 485 and RTu in black script.

There are some minor and occasional abrasions along the rim edges. The tureen has an approximate 1-1/2 inch haircrack running from the midpoint of one side down towards the center. The cover: The bird's beak has a very small flat chip (possibly a glaze flake) that has been glued back with one tiny part missing. There is an approximate 1;/5-inch small chip to the edge of its tail. Otherwise 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.

A duck box of the same model, differently colored, is illustrated in Eduard Fuchs and Paul Heiland, Die Deutsche Fayence-Kultur, pl. 104c, where the authors tentatively attribute it to Künersberg, circa 1760. A Künersberg figure of a perched parrot painted in a very similar manner and color palette is illustrated in Helmut Nißl, 250 Jahre Künersberger Fayencen, p. 228, cat. no. 133. Another example, called 'German', was sold at Sotheby's Florence, April 9, 1974, lot 15. Two examples similar to the present model from the Collection of the late Count and Countess Guy du Boisrouvrey were sold in these rooms, October 18, 1989, lot 314.