modelled with open mouths and upturned tails, painted with scales in puce, green and yellow,

Acquired by the father of the present owner in the 20th century.

In generally good appearance. Both with tail fins probably replaced, and right pectoral fin replaced. The example in the left of the catalogue illustration,with good quality restoration to the body near tail fin; the example in the right of the illustration with body near tail cleanly broken in two places
"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."

There are few records for the present model in the literature. An example was gifted to the V&A museum by Lady Charlotte Schreiber, and a pair were in the A. H. Harris collection, sold in these rooms, 17th April 1951, lot 21, probably the pair which is now in the Rhode Island School of Design Museum, Rhode Island gifted by Abby Rockefeller Mauze. A smaller model was also produced, one of this type from the Rous Lench collection was sold in these rooms, 1st July 1986, lot 186, and others are illustrated by Anton Gabszewicz, Made at New Canton, E.C.C., London, 2000, p. 107, no. 97.