modelled by J. J. Kändler and J. G. Ehder, perched preening its wing upon a tree stump applied with flowers,

Anon, Christie's London, 24th February 1997, lot 290

Melitta Kunze-Köllensperger, Alexanders Tiere, Sammlung Axel Guttman, Part VII, pp. 88, 135, no. 100

The bird has been broken and the top of the stump and repaired, tip of left wing, tip of left wing and tail feathers restored, right claws lacking, some typical chipping to applied leaves and flowers of which some have very slight restoration.
"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."

Kändler's work records list his modelling of a waxwing in January 1741: 'Einen Vogel in Ziemlicher Größe, Ein Seyden Schwanz genannt Welcher auf enen Starcken Aste aufs Sauberste nach der Natur Vorgestellet und nach poußiretist.' [A bird of moderate size, known as a waxwing, which is on a strong branch, cleanly depicted and modelled after nature]. The model was subsequently worked on by J. G. Edher later in the same year as noted in the work records for July and August: '1 Vogel, den Seyden-Schwantz genannt, rein bossirt' [1 bird, called the waxwing, cleanly modelled]. Kändler also returned to the model again in 1774, and examples of that period are known bearing crossed swords and dot marks.