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La Nourrice - Porcelain figure of breast feeding, Liverpool, circa 1759

About the Item

An important soft-paste porcelain figure of a nurse feeding a swaddled infant. Probably by Richard Chaffers; and taken from the Chelsea version, which in turn was from the potter Berthelemy de Blenod. For a discussion of the model, see B.Watney, `The King, the Nun, and other figures', English Ceramics Circle Transactions, vol. 7, part , 1968; and B.Watney, Liverpool Porcelain of the Eighteenth Century, p.118. Richard Chaffers (circa 1731–1765) was a pioneering English porcelain manufacturer based in Liverpool. He is best known for establishing one of the earliest porcelain factories in Liverpool during the mid-18th century, a period when the city was a growing hub for trade and industry. Chaffers initially worked as a potter producing earthenware but ventured into porcelain manufacturing around 1754, inspired by the growing demand for fine ceramics. His factory, located in the Baltic Triangle area of Liverpool, specialized in producing soft-paste porcelain, which was a relatively new and luxurious material at the time. Chaffers' porcelain was noted for its high quality and often featured Chinese-inspired decoration, reflecting the influence of imported Chinese porcelain that was highly sought after by affluent Europeans. His pieces often included underglaze blue designs and were sometimes decorated in London workshops. Despite his early success, Chaffers' career was short-lived. He passed away in 1765 at the age of 34, likely from the effects of lead poisoning—a common occupational hazard for potters of the time. After his death, his factory continued to operate briefly under the management of others but eventually closed. Chaffers' work remains highly regarded by collectors and is an important part of the history of English ceramics. His porcelain pieces are considered rare and are often found in museums and private collections.
  • Attributed to:
    Richard Chaffers (Manufacturer)
  • Dimensions:
    Height: 5.75 in (14.61 cm)Width: 3 in (7.62 cm)Depth: 3 in (7.62 cm)
  • Style:
    Neoclassical (Of the Period)
  • Materials and Techniques:
    Porcelain,Molded
  • Place of Origin:
    England
  • Period:
    Mid-18th Century
  • Date of Manufacture:
    circa 1759
  • Condition:
    Minor losses. Some firing cracks, as shown, mostly to the back. The figure has survivedin remarkable condition.
  • Seller Location:
    Melbourne, AU
  • Reference Number:
    Seller: 61161stDibs: LU3151342913222

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