Prancing and Flehming Delftware Horses

Exceptional Pair of Polychrome Prancing and Flehming Horses (D2444)
Delft, circa 1765
Marked lpk in blue for De Porceleyne Lampetkan (The Porcelain Ewer) factory from 1609 until 1811
DIMENSIONS
Height: 23.5 cm. (9.3 in.)
PROVENANCE
By repute Collection Jacques Couque, Paris;
J.M. Béalu & Fils at the Paris Biennale, 1994 or 1996; French Private Collection, Paris, 2023 (Provenance+)
NOTE:
Horses have forged a unique and enduring connecting with humans due to their remarkable blend of intelligence, elegance, and strength. Initially hunted, the horse earned admiration, prompting humans to recognize their utility. Over time, horses became invaluable as diligent workers, a source of pleasure in sports, and even as captivating performers in shows. These qualities rendered them a cherished subject in art, and also in Delft.
From 1700, the Delft potters started to experiment with molds for modeling. This led to the production of a multitude of rond de bosse figurines. The naturalistic animal figures were inspired from the porcelain and faience centers of Strasbourg, Meissen, Chantilly, etc. This pair of horses was probably intended as ornaments to be displayed in glass cabinets or etageres.