This is a great item for popping on top of the mantlepiece of an antique fireplace in a Victorian interior. The flatback figurine is designed to be seen set against a wall - the front is decorated but the back is left plain as you would not see this when it is on show.
This is a genuine 19th Century Victorian example, It looks just lovely on display - it is full of rustic charm. The colours are detailing are typical of these rural figurines which were produced in the 1850s.
Everyday rural life was a popular subject at this time. They were made - not for more wealthy collectors of fine porcelain models - but for display in farmhouses and field workers cottage. The subject produced were often subjects which reflected their own lifestyle. They capture a way of rural life - which was common in the 19th and early 20th centuries - but now has almost gone.
The figurine shows a man and woman who have been our in the fields. The lady has been cutting down stalks of wheat - and bundling them up into sheaves. One is shown at her feet - and the other is tucked under her arm. She wears a pretty dress - which is white with tiny dots on it representing flowers - and on top, she has a vibrant orange overdress or apron. She wears a wee bonnet to keep the sun off her head.
Her beau stands close and puts his arm around her waist. He has a dark blue jacket, pale pink knee-breeches - and across his chest is the strap of his little brown bag. A little sickle-shaped knife or scythe is seen near his waistband. He also wears a little white sun hat or beret.
It dates to the later 19th century - and like all my Staffordshire figurines listed in my Iconic Edinburgh online shop, it is a genuine antique piece and NOT a modern reproduction.
Dimensions:- it is 7 1/2 inches in height and 4 3/4 inches wide - with a depth of 2 inches.
Unpacked it is 430 grams. It has no damages or restorations.