Large figure "Seated Pug" Meissen

With a small tail, the head is turned toward the viewer. Brown eyes and a black nose, as well as a coat pattern in light brown and black stripes. Polychrome painting. Possibly attributed to Johann Joachim Kändler and Peter Reinicke. Uncertain authorship; mark of crossed swords. Height 23 cm. According to the tax records of Johann Joachim Kändler, he was responsible for creating various models of pugs from 1734 until the mid-18th century. The secret symbol of the Freemasons—the pug with the Order of the Pug, a society with members from the Roman Catholic Church. In these circles, the pug was a symbol of loyalty, reliability, and constancy. See Rücker, Meissen Porcelain Catalogue, Bavarian National Museum, number 1091. Pietsch, Triumph of the Blue Swords, number 327. Large porcelain figurine of a pug. Minor chips. Mark of crossed swords. Meissen. 18th century.