Victorian Plated Cupids Figure

American Victorian metal figure of strutting black man with cane and top hat on green onyx round base

French Victorian bronze figure of hunting dog on oval black marble base (signed P.J. MENE).  

An important homage to love, this large black basalt figure is an impressive example of Wedgwood's artistry and imagination. Cupid, the ancient Roman god of love, is standing amongst billowing clouds with a pair of doves at his feet. Gazing towards earth with one hand shielding his eyes, the other hand holds an arrow. His bow and quiver rest at his side, ready to take aim. "CUPID" is etched into the base. Considered a crowning achievement of Wedgwood, black basalt was created by blending manganese with an iron-oxide rich slurry procured from coal mines called carr. In addition to the impressive color, this combination also provided additional strength and solidity. While it initially proved challenging to fire because of its weight, that same characteristic was advantageous in creating ornaments, lending stability to library...

Antique Victorian Staffordshire flatback figure of a harvester sleeping between the hay beneath a spill jar. In lovely condition, no chips, cracks or repairs Dimensions: Height 15 ...