This is a rare 19th century German porcelain match striker / fairing.
It takes the form of Souter Johnnie: the striker is on the back of his chair.
Souter Johnnie was the drinking companion of Burns’ heroic character - Tam O’Shanter.
Souter (“A Cobbler”) Johnnie is seated in a pub, wearing his shoemaker’s apron and holding a mug of ale. This little model is base on the life-size figure carved in sandstone by the Scottish sculptor, James Thom (1802 - 1850). The sculptures of Johnnie and his drinking pal, Tam O'Shanter were so popular they went on a tour of Britain in the 1830s, and copies were made for America.
This little model shows the continued popularity of the sculptures - and date to the end of the 19th century. They were made in Germany - and this match striker is marked on the base: Made in Germany 31. They would have been made in Germany for export - possibly to be sold in shops in Ayrshire to the tourist market.
My little fellow is six inches in height and in excellent condition with no damages.
A more unusual item for your collection of Burnsiana.
HAPPY TO POST INTERNATIONALLY, PLEASE ASK FOR A POSTAGE QUOTE FOR OUTSIDE OF THE UK