Dresden Figurine of Count Bruhl’s Tailor on Goat

Porcelain : Antique : German

 

There are several stories that accompany this comical figure of an 18th century tailor upon a goat, but the figurine has always been known as “Count Bruhl’s Tailor.” The original rendition of this figure was produced at the Meissen factory by their brilliant modeler, Johann Joachim Kandler in a large 17” size.

Legend has it that Count Bruhl’s tailor was a very presumptive fellow who thought that he should have more privileges than his station in life allowed. To teach the pesky tailor a lesson, Count Bruhl, had this comical figure rendered by Kandler and gave it to the tailor to show him just how ridiculous his requests were. Upon receipt of his figure on a goat, the tailor was mortified and realized how impudent he had been. He was never heard from again.

Whether or not this really happened is the subject of folklore, but this comical figure has become so beloved by collectors that several important porcelain manufacturers have made their own version. This outstanding piece was produced by the Dresden porcelain factory of Carl Thieme. The tailor is perched upon a he-goat and adorned with all the instruments of his trade including the delicate pin cushion perched on the goat's back. Both the goat and tailor are wearing glasses, a satirical gesture lowering the status of the tailor to that of the goat. The figure is beautifully hand painted, quite large and showy, perfect for display on a shelf, chest, or table, in excellent condition; size 12 ½” x 8 ½” L x 6” W.

Item ID: PS07-01-08-01