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拍品專文
John Coan, the 'Norfolk Dwarf', was first 'exhibited' aged sixteen at the Lower Half Moon in Norwich in 1744. He was famed for his sharp wit and intelligence and performed at taverns and fairs. Coan is recorded as having been a guest at a party given by Frederick, Prince of Wales at Leicester House in January 1751. Taking advantage of his fame he established The Dwarf's Tavern in Chelsea Fields which attracted curious customers.
Three pairs of these figures were offered in a six day auction of Chelsea porcelain held by Mr Burnsall at Berkeley Square during April and May 1761. A pair of figures of John Coan and the Prussian Dwarf David Gabrisco are in the Royal Collection, London (RCIN 53112 & 53113); an example of the John Coan figure is in the Bearsted Collection at Upton House; and an example of the David Gabarisco figure is in the Untermyer Collection at the Metropolitan Museum, New York.
Three pairs of these figures were offered in a six day auction of Chelsea porcelain held by Mr Burnsall at Berkeley Square during April and May 1761. A pair of figures of John Coan and the Prussian Dwarf David Gabrisco are in the Royal Collection, London (RCIN 53112 & 53113); an example of the John Coan figure is in the Bearsted Collection at Upton House; and an example of the David Gabarisco figure is in the Untermyer Collection at the Metropolitan Museum, New York.