Minton Pair of Parian Biscuit Figures of Gardeners, England, 1845, Set of 2

Details

Description

A beautifully modelled pair of mid-19th-century Parian biscuit figures by Minton & Co., Stoke-on-Trent, Staffordshire. Entitled “The Gardeners,” the pair … Read more A beautifully modelled pair of mid-19th-century Parian biscuit figures by Minton & Co., Stoke-on-Trent, Staffordshire. Entitled “The Gardeners,” the pair represents a young man offering fruit from his basket to a girl gathering flowers in her apron — a charming embodiment of the Victorian pastoral ideal. The circular bases feature a Greek-key border, and the unglazed Parian surface captures the appearance of carved marble, showcasing Minton’s innovation in Parian body development around 1845.

Factory marks were not consistently applied during this early phase. Minton’s Parian sculptures soon gained international recognition following the Great Exhibition of 1851, becoming highly sought-after across Europe and America. This pair combines classical balance with romantic sentiment, making it ideal for collectors or refined interior display.

Measurements
• Male figure – Height: 19.5 cm (7.68″); Width: 10 cm (3.94″); Depth: 10 cm (3.94″); Weight: 332 g
• Female figure – Height: 19.3 cm (7.6″); Width: 8 cm (3.15″); Depth: 7.5 cm (2.95″); Weight: 271 g

Condition
Male figure – minor fingertip losses and small chips to fruit leaves; both hands possibly subject to light restoration.
Female figure – apron with flowers restored and re-glued; repaired left elbow and reattached flower on hem; otherwise excellent antique condition, with no cracks or structural losses. See less