1950s quality porcelain figurines Marie-Antoinette era Japan made Meissen style

This pair of “Made in Japan” figurines is rare and remarkable for at least three reasons: its size (each figure stands 10” ½ tall), its level of quality and its unusual subject (a couple of Revolutionaries from the French Revolution, recognizable to their massively striped outfits). A little bit of context: Started right after World War II and prolonged into the early 1960s, Japanese porcelain figurines are well-known and popular collectibles, marked “Made in occupied Japan” until 1952, and simply “made in Japan” afterwards. Though this Japanese production is diverse in inspiration, it tends to focus on the depiction of European courtiers from the 1700s, very much in the style of renowned Meissen porcelain figurines (but far from achieving the same level of quality). Here, with this charming couple, we see none of these usual deficiencies. The design, painting and glaze are definitely high quality. It’s particularly visible with the treatment of faces, which is superb: subtle complexion nuances, very precise and skilful painting of mouth, eyes and eyebrows (one can distinguish the blue irises from the black pupil) and beautiful high-gloss glaze make for a result that is very satisfying, even in the least forgiving up-close pictures. It’s not Meissen quality yet, but we are getting very close! Poses are interesting and natural, colors are vivid and come in a wide variety. Excellent vintage condition (no chip or scratch). Dimensions: 10” ½ tall