Staffordshire Lion

Here's an antique gem to brighten your day.

There's nothing like the internet to do some "shopping".   I love using staffordshire because it is so whimsical.  I've done the decorating with the expensive antique porcelain, but pottery is what appeals to me the most.

Making staffordshire figures was a cottage industry in England in the 1800's.  The idea that some family was running a kiln at home to feed the family, and kids helping mom and dad paint the figures gives the pieces such a feeling of history.....love it!  Meissen is lovely, but I'm in a staffordshire phase.

from
http://madelena.com

Wouldn't he look great on a stack of books?  or anywhere!

  I've purchased from Madelena before--although I prefer my scavenge-bargain hunting prices.   Sometimes you have to jump in and get the rare stuff.  They were great to deal with, packed well and overnighted the piece to me!    

I'd love to buy the piece, but my mind is on other things right now--sometimes I can't make an 'expensive' decision. It drives my husband crazy!

If you don't want to spend $1500 on a piece, here's a few cheaper options.  bbjoylove on Ebay are reputable, check out this cute auction.  Only $325 for darling sheep?  (make an offer for 10% less)

 http://cgi.ebay.com/RARE-STAFFORDSHIRE-PAIR-ROYAL-CHILDREN-SHEEP-/400158381672?pt=LH_DefaultDomain_0&hash=item5d2b4c5668

 I think these figures are in a bit better shape, the paint is not so chippy.  Auction starting at $275,   

http://cgi.ebay.com/PR-VICTORIAN-STAFFORDSHIRE-SHEEP-HIGHLANDER-SHEPHERDS-/300473421516?pt=LH_DefaultDomain_0&hash=item45f59c8ecc

Be sure to always look at the paint jobs for chipped paint, and for reglued limbs, ears, etc.   Although when I'm decorating, I've been known to buy a $25 piece of chipped staffordshire because it "looks right".

Have a great Wednesday!