Crier with Laterna Magica from the Cris de Paris Series
Meissen model by Peter Reinicke 1753/54, cast and decoration soon after, impressed mark "27" (corresponding to the preliminary drawing by Huet 1753); 14.5 cm high
The preparatory drawing comes from the French painter and designer Christophe Huet, who likely created it for his brother and business partner, the leading Parisian porcelain dealer of his time. It was included in the large commission for the 34 Cris de Paris figures and remains in the porcelain manufactory to this day. The same applies to the almost equally large and contemporary commission for the Monkey Orchestra, which centered on Huet’s main artistic theme—Singeries (monkeys engaged in human activities).
Huet’s panels featuring Singeries, created for the palaces of Madame Pompadour, the Prince de Condé, and the Duke of Rohan, are particularly renowned.
The inscription on Huet’s preparatory drawing reads: "No. 27 CH – A Savoyard with a magic lantern, and with his organ case in front of him" (quoted from Eberle, p. 124).
Comparative examples:
- Schorr Collection, No. 110
- Burda Collection, No. 52
- Eberle (No. 48)
- Christie’s, July 14, 2006, No. 121