Antique Staffordshire Festive Gent Figural

The expansion of wealth created from the Industrial Revolution prompted an explosion in the production of these now highly collectible Staffordshire figurines to meet the demand of middle-class Victorians. Produced by a great many Staffordshire potteries to imitate much more expensive Meissen and Nymphenburg pieces produced on the continent for the opulent homes of the upper-class, these charming figures are a lovely glimpse into mid 19^th-century decorating trends.

Experienced decorators in the pottery factories worked on the burgeoning industry's higher-end porcelain, while those classified as unskilled (typically women and children), painted these popular colorful figurines. Painted quickly and freely, the result is a folk-art quality that adds to their undeniable appeal, although it wasn't until the 20th century that serious collectors began to appreciate their charms.

Whether dogs and cats, farm animals, elephants or zebras, politicians of the day, members of the royal family, notorious crime figures or everyday folk, there is a Staffordshire figure to pique any collector's interest. These status symbol figurines were originally intended for display on a fireplace mantel, cabinet or shelf and purposefully designed as a material and time-saver with a relatively flat back (to use less clay) and left undecorated.

From a beloved lifelong collection found in England, this handsome Antique Staffordshire figure makes quite an impression with its festively dressed gent. With classic hallmarks of this beloved flat-back style, including an undecorated back, this intensely colored figure wears a brilliantly feathered hat and sports a topcoat of cobalt blue, pink breeches and a cape topped with a textured ermine accent.

Colorful with his cascading sash, this noble gent is sure to be a charmingly stylish addition to any existing collection or the perfect starting point to begin the lifelong joy of collecting!

Strictly one-of-a-kind and subject to prior sale. Circa 1850s. In original antique condition with minimal paint loss as is common in antique Staffordshire. 10.5"H x 5"W.