Antique Staffordshire At the Village Green Figural

Recently arrived in shop as part of a lifelong collection found in England, we are pleased to offer this delightful Antique Staffordshire water gatherer, glancing in the distance for just a moment before reaching down to fill her vessel from the village well. This colorful figurine is hand-painted on the front surface in a palette of rich, bright tones, complete with a softly flowing sash and detailed tartan.

An expanded creation of wealth from the Industrial Revolution prompted an explosion in the production of more affordable Staffordshire figurines to meet the demand of middle-class Victorians. The vast majority of these decorative, hand-painted figures were produced by the Staffordshire potteries to imitate much more expensive Meissen and Nymphenburg pieces produced on the continent for the opulent homes of the upper-class.

Experienced decorators in the 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.

Middle class Victorians prized a well-decorated, layered home with many textures and patterns. In a style that we might consider fussy or overdone today, more was always more for the Victorians on both sides of the Atlantic. Colorful figurines such as these adorned their fireplace mantels, art pottery and transferware overflowed in plate racks and on sideboards and every possible surface boasted vases, ornaments and other curiosities of the day.

Now prized for their naïve painting style and timeless presence, through a rapid production timeline and desire to offer decor at an accessible price, costs were greatly reduced by leaving the rear of many figurines intentionally undecorated. The rear side of this idyllic scene was cast in this typical, highly collectible flat-back style offering greater security in setting against the wall upon a more shallow mantel or shelf.

Promising to bring her wistful glance and gentle temperament to your bookshelf, mantel or cabinet for years to come, this beautiful Staffordshire figurine is sure to have watched over many a cozy, domestic setting in the past 150 years.

Strictly one-of-a-kind and subject to prior sale. Circa 1850s. In original antique condition with only minimal paint loss as is common in antique Staffordshire. 8.5"H x 4"W.