Quack doctor, Harlequin and monkey 1740 - 1750

This Meissen porcelain group, "Quack doctor, Harlequin and monkey," is a playful depiction of a charlatan doctor, Harlequin, and a monkey. Made in Germany between 1740 and 1750, the group is a humorous commentary on the popular entertainment and medical practices of the time. The figures, intricately modeled and painted in vibrant colors, are arranged around a table laden with bottles and other paraphernalia, suggesting the quack doctor's dubious medical practice. The inclusion of Harlequin, a stock character in Commedia dell'Arte, adds a theatrical element to the scene, further emphasizing the satirical nature of the work. This piece is a testament to the skill and artistry of the Meissen Manufactory, which was renowned for its high-quality porcelain and its mastery of modeling and painting.