For some sculptural commissions, a leading artist such as Giambologna made only the model and the work was executed by others. Ideas were also transmitted by terracotta models, plaquettes and engravings, as well as by decorative objects for which sculptors had provided designs.
The Elector of Saxony, Augustus the Strong, made Dresden a leading centre for sculpture and also founded a porcelain manufactory at Meissen, just outside the city. Sculptors frequently supplied models to the Meissen factory and this terracotta was probably made in preparation for a figure group in porcelain or red stoneware.