he modelled seated reading a book, she with a child on her lap, each with a nodding head, wearing a robe painted with colourful sprays of flowers and picked out in gilding, on a hexagonal base (some chips)

With Kate Foster Antiques, London

She with chips around the collar and left cuff, two small firing cracks running along her nose and across left cheek, chips to childs toes, he in overall good condition Please note that the Preacher's articulated chin is a replacement.
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

Although it is not certain who the nodding couple is intended to represent, they tend to be called 'the preacher and his wife' based on various sermons or prayers, inscribed in the open book he is holding (Mein Herz Du sollst sehen mein Erbtheil, und das Sihl meiner grossen Liebe, Amen). In the past however, they were also catalogued as the 'sage' and 'Russian Governess and Child' or 'Russian nurse', as for example the figure group of woman and child, sold a😼t Sotheby's Geneva 10.5.1988, lot 39, and the assembled pair sold at Sotheby's Parke Benett, 26.9.1989, lot 155.