Stunning Antique “Centerpiece”, great creation of 19th century masters of KPM , historical hand painted hard paste porcelain, in excellent condition. It is a large centerpiece with fabulous symbolism of wealth and victory, magnificent table decoration, proof of great artistry in terms of table decorations. A splendid mythological creature, a form of mermaid/siren(greek) with two splendid tails, holds a large snail shell over her head. The mermaid with two tails it is called a “Melusine”, depicted as living in freshwater. The concept of the melusine comes from French and other European myths and is often depicted in heraldry. In alchemy the Melusine represents enlightenment. The two tails of the siren represent symbolic dualities such as water and earth, or body and soul. Along with a cherub Cupid, on the side of the shell sits a magnificent Nike (Victory in Greek) Goddess with wings and crown, symbol of victory of all kinds. The K.P.M./ A.W.Kister (1863-1905) porcelain factory in Scheibe, Thuringia, produced high-quality pieces. Renowned artists such as Professor Reinhard Möller worked for the factory as leader of the modelling department in 1877. It is in excellent condition, marked on the back of the base with KPM sworded blue mark of the period (1863-1905), minimal chip on the side of the base, otherwise NO chips, NO cracks and NO repairs, please see the pictures as they are part of description. Germany, 19th century Dimensions: Height: 29 cm Length: 15,5 cm Width: 14 cm Will be very carefully and safely packed ! With love and respect for the porcelain - “ The White Gold “