Rare 19th Century English Enamelled Cast Iron Doorstop of Jumbo the Elephant

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Rare 19th-Century English Enamelled Cast Iron Doorstop of Jumbo the Elephant, ca. 1870–1885

A scarce and evocative English Victorian cast … Read more Rare 19th-Century English Enamelled Cast Iron Doorstop of Jumbo the Elephant, ca. 1870–1885

A scarce and evocative English Victorian cast iron doorstop depicting Jumbo the Elephant, the most celebrated animal of the 19th century. Cast in heavy iron and finished in a cream-colored enamel glaze, this example reflects English foundry practice of the 1870s–80s, with full enamel coverage including the underside of the base—an important distinction from later American examples, which were typically painted rather than enameled.

The figure shows Jumbo in profile with tusks extended and trunk lowered, standing on an integral plinth base with a molded edge. The restrained enamel surface, slightly worn with age, emphasizes the form and weight of the casting. The reverse is flat and unadorned, as expected of early doorstops.

Jumbo, captured in Africa and brought to the London Zoo in 1865, became a beloved Victorian celebrity. His sale to P. T. Barnum in 1882 caused a sensation, and his name entered the English language as a synonym for “giant.” Foundries quickly produced commemorative wares—from Staffordshire figures to cast iron novelties—making this piece both decorative and historically resonant.

Far rarer than the more common early 20th-century Hubley painted versions, this enameled English example represents the authentic Victorian origin of Jumbo mania.

Dimensions: 10" H × 11" W × 3" D
Provenance: English foundry work, ca. 1870–1885 See less