An important large Meissen offering bowl from the so-called Northumberland Service Of round form with a moulded rim. In the recessed centre, an island-style depiction of a cat of prey, surrounded by large, densely arranged ombre woodcut flowers in the manner of Johann Gottfried Klinger, held by a ribbon tied in a bow. Polychrome painting with gold rim. Press no. 20, rubbed due to age; crossed swords mark. D. 30 cm. The so-called Northumberland Service was a diplomatic gift from King August III to the British envoy to the Saxon court, Sir Charles Hunbury-Williams, in 1747. 108 remaining pieces are now owned by the Duke of Northumberland's family at Alnwick Castle. The European and exotic animal depictions placed in the centre of the plate mirror are based on various engravings (from Dürer to Ridinger). A total of 19 surviving contemporary watercolours depict the main pieces of the service in their original size. A few pieces are represented in important collections (including the former Hoffmeister Collection and the Pauls Collection) and in well-known museums (including the Bavarian National Museum in Munich and the Seattle Art Museum). They are rarities on the international art market and realise top prices. Cf. Clark, in Keramos, vol. 70 (1975), pp. 9-77; Bodinek, vol. II, figs. 50, 88ff., 128a; Hoffmeister Collection, vol. I, no. 191f., Pauls Collection, no. p. 154. An important large serving dish from the Northumberland service finely painted with animal depictions after engravings and woodcut flowers. Impressed no. 20. Age-related rubbed. Crossed swords mark. Meissen. Circa 1748 - 1750.