Antique Staffordshire “Gin and Water” Temperance Figure

Details

Description

An exceptional 19th-century Victorian Staffordshire double-sided narrative figure depicting the moral contrast between indulgence and restraint. Crafted by the Thomas … Read more An exceptional 19th-century Victorian Staffordshire double-sided narrative figure depicting the moral contrast between indulgence and restraint. Crafted by the Thomas Parr factory circa 1850, this witty, distinctly English commentary utilizes visual satire to champion the Temperance Movement.
• One side represents "Water", showcasing a well-to-do, sober gentleman elegantly dressed in a patterned waistcoat, holding a full bag of money to symbolize prosperity and clear-headedness.
• The reverse side turns to reveal "Gin", capturing the same character transformed into a disheveled, down-and-out drunkard wearing tattered trousers, a crooked hat, and desperately clutching a small bottle of liquor.
Hand-painted with a naive, nostalgic charm, the figure stands on a circular base with indented gilt lettering. A classic, highly collectible example of historical social commentary rendered in English ceramic folk art. See less