Figure from the Les Cris de Paris series, Meissen model by Peter Reinicke (1753/54), molded and decorated shortly thereafter / Underglaze blue crossed swords mark on the back of the base / Impressed mark "27" (corresponding to Huet's 1753 drawing) / Height: 14.6 cm
The preparatory drawing was created by the French painter and designer Christophe Huet, likely for his brother and business partner, the leading Parisian porcelain dealer of his time. It was part of the large commission for the 34 Cris de Paris figures and remains in the Meissen manufactory to this day. The same applies to the nearly equally large and contemporary commission for the Monkey Band, which embodies Huet’s central theme—the Singeries.
Huet's Singeries panels for the residences of Madame de Pompadour, the Prince de Condé, and the Duke of Rohan are renowned.
The inscription on Huet's drawing reads:
"No. 27 CH – a Savoyard with a magic lantern, carrying his organ box in front of him." (quoted in Eberle, p. 124)
Comparable pieces:
