Modello or sketch for porte montre (watch stand) c. 1780

This terracotta model for a watch stand, created anonymously around 1780, showcases the elegant style of the late Rococo period. The piece features a graceful female figure standing on a pedestal, holding a bird in her left hand. Above her, a cherub leans out from a decorative frame, adding a playful touch. The intricate details and delicate proportions of the sculpture reflect the refined tastes of the era, while the overall form suggests a practical use as a decorative object in a wealthy home. The watch stand, with its charming design and refined craftsmanship, offers a glimpse into the artistic sensibilities of 18th-century Europe.