When you click on links to various merchants on this site and make a purchase, this can result in this site earning a commission. Affiliate programs and affiliations include, but are not limited to, the eBay Partner Network.
Antique 18thC Derby Porcelain Figurine William Shakespeare Monument Figure Complete
π Item SpecificsFieldValueBrand / MakerDerby Porcelain Factory(Patch Mark Period)TypeFigurine / StatueSubjectWilliam ShakespeareMaterialSoft-paste PorcelainAge / Time PeriodPre-1800 (Circa 1765β1775)Original / ReproductionOriginal AntiqueCountry of OriginUnited Kingdom / EnglandFeaturesHand-painted, Gilt accents, Both hands fully intact, Relief Monarch BustsDimensions12.25" H x 7" W x 5" Dπ The Inscribed Poem (FromThe Tempest)The text hand-painted in black onto the unrolled porcelain scroll is an excerpt ofProspero's famous monologue from Act IV, Scene 1 of William Shakespeare'sThe Tempest:"The Cloud Capt Towr's,
The Gorgeous Palaces,
The Solemn Temples,
The Great Globe itself,
Yea All Which it inherit
Shall Dissolve,
And Like The Baseless
Fabric Of A Vision
Leave Not A Wreck
Behind."π Rarity & Historical SignificanceThis figurine ishighly rare and an exceptionally desirable 18th-century model. Molded directly from Peter Scheemakers' 1740 Westminster Abbey marble monument, this specimen is from Derbyβs early "Patch Mark" period. The underside contains the characteristic circular unglazed pad spots from the kiln firing.The accompanying column features three finely sculpted relief busts representing the English monarchs featured in Shakespeare's history plays:King Richard III, Queen Elizabeth I, and King Henry V. Identical 18th-century porcelain figures from this exact mold are prized pieces within the permanent collections of theVictoria and Albert Museumand theBritish Museum.π Detailed Item DescriptionItem:Antique 18th-Century Derby Porcelain William Shakespeare Figurine
Circa:1765β1775
Origin:EnglandDescription:
Up for sale is a magnificent, authentic 18th-century soft-paste porcelain figurine of William Shakespeare produced by the prestigious Derby Porcelain Factory. The Bard stands elegantly on a rococo scroll-moulded base highlighted in turquoise and overglaze gold gilding. He wears a detailed white doublet with fine gold detailing, white knee breeches, and a pink-lined cloak draped dramatically over his shoulders. He rests his right elbow on three colorful books piled atop a classical pedestal.Outstanding Integrity (Hands & Scroll Intact):
Unlike many surviving 18th-century porcelain figures which frequently suffer missing limbs or broken fingers,this figurine features both hands fully present, intact, and attached to the body. His right hand cradles his chin in deep thought, and his left hand is fully complete, beautifully sculpted resting against his waistline while supporting the cascading porcelain scroll.Condition Report:
Please review all high-resolution photos closely to inspect its historic condition traits:
- Structural Stability:The piece is structurally stable. There are historic, aged adhesive lines from a past stabilization repair around the lower legs, ankles, and base.
- Surface Lines:Natural hairline glaze crazing is present across the piece. A fine hairline is visible along the reverse drapery of the pink cape and near the base of the pedestal.
- Aged Patina:Shows light historic amber/iron-oxide aging spots on the back of the neck and hair, along with typical light wear to the gold gilt accents consistent with a 250+ year old museum-era relic.
An exceptional, scarce example of early Georgian English porcelain that makes a premier center-piece for any serious literary or antique collection..Keep in mind the shipping price also covers handling fees, packaging materials & time, not just postage.See our store for thousands of our other items.
B17B