Dear All, I am attempting to initiate a little research project
to help determine the surviving numbers of Symphonion Gambrinus and
Falstaff figures. I realise that there are very few, perhaps even less
than a handful. I am aware of the excellent Gambrinus reproductions
in wood, but it's the terracotta figures I have an interest in.
I would welcome any information and photographs.
Recently a Falstaff turned up, which undoubtedly is an original and
I believe at this moment to be the sole survivor. It would be great
to be wrong in this instance.
I wondered for many years who had made the terracotta figures. It
was only while musing over this while examining the Falstaff did it
dawn on me: Friedrich Goldscheider. With a little research, I found
that Goldschieder opened a factory in Leipzig close to the [Symphonion]
factory. So I would think its safe to attribute the figures to this
manufacturer. I have read the figures were Majolica; the only ones
I have seen are cold-painted terracotta.
I wrote an article on the Falstaff, published in the Winter, 2016,
edition of "The Music Box," the journal of the MBSGB, accompanied by
several high-resolution images of this beautiful piece.
Thanks in advance for any help.
Mark Singleton
[ A Gambrinus replica is pictured at
[ https://new.liveauctioneers.com/item/5927590_19-symphonion-disc-musical-box-gambrinus
[ Majolica earthenware pottery is described at
[ https://www.thespruce.com/majolica-2746077 -- Robbie
|