745 - A pair of exceptional dated Dutch Delft faience figures of leaping horses

A pair of exceptional dated Dutch Delft faience figures of leaping horses A pair of opposing models of horses clearing a hurdle, mounted on square plinths. The horses are saddled and elaborately caparisoned. The upper surface of each plinth is painted as a meadow with delicate plants and frogs; the sides are encircled by bands of solid colour, one decorated with chinoiserie scrolling foliage on an iron-red ground. The date ‘ANNO 1756’ is engraved on the top beam of the obstacle. Unmarked. One ear tip missing; both crowns reattached (one loose); the legs have been restored. Height 21.2 and 18.6 cm. Delft, 1756. A comparable pair of standing horses, with fewer decorative details and plain, undecorated bases, is held in the collection of Museum Prinsenhof Delft (inv. no. PDA 1327). Despite the differences, similarities can also be found in the bridles and saddles. The pair offered here may likewise be attributable to the De Porceleyne Schotel manufactory under Jan Pennis (1723 - 1763). Provenance The Dessing & Dröge Collection.