Large Victorian Staffordshire Pottery Figure Group: Cow and Milkmaid

This charming and sizable figure group, dating from the Victorian period (circa 1860–1880), is a classic example of popular figurative ceramics produced in the Staffordshire potteries.

The model depicts a large, well-modeled cow, which is painted with naturalistic coloring (typically brown, black, and white patches). Standing beside her is a milkmaid, shown sitting on a small stool, actively milking the cow. A pail of milk rests on the ground in front of her and below the cow's udder. The milkmaid is dressed in simple attire, wearing a white jacket and a yellow hat over her dark hair.

These figures are emblematic of the 19th century's romanticized view of rural life and domesticity. The group is set on a grassy green mound base, typical of Staffordshire flat-back figures intended for mantelpiece display.

Dimensions: 7 1/4 inches high x 8 3/4 inches wide x 3 1/2 inches (18.42cm high x 22.23cm wide x 8.89cm deep).

Condition: Good antique condition, with bright colors and minimal wear consistent with age.

Historical Context: Staffordshire Figures and Victorian Rural Idylls

Staffordshire Figures (19th Century): The production of earthenware figures flourished in the Staffordshire potteries during the Victorian era. These figures, often referred to as "Staffordshire ornaments" were the primary form of affordable decorative art for the rapidly expanding middle and working classes.

The Cow and Rural Subjects:

Animal models, particularly cows, were among the most consistently popular subjects. The cow, often portrayed alongside a milkmaid, symbolized the fertility, health, and romanticized peace of the British countryside"”an appealing contrast to the industrial reality of the mid-Victorian period. The figures often celebrated scenes of rural labor and domestic harmony.

The bold modeling, vibrant palette (seen in the maid's bright jacket and hat), and accessible subject matter are all hallmarks of these popular ceramics, which served as both functional mantelpiece ornaments and visual commentary on contemporary popular culture and idealized village life.

(Ref: NY10559-xam)


Condition:
Alterations: Original Condition Unaltered
Imperfections: Some Imperfections
Condition Notes: Good

Origin:
United Kingdom

Creator:
Brand: Staffordshire

Materials & Techniques:
Pottery

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Original Condition Unaltered; Some Imperfections; Good