Early Derby Porcelain Mars Figural Candlestick: Rococo Gilt Sconce, c. 1765
£925.00
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Early Derby Porcelain Figural Candlestick Depicting Mars, patch period. circa 1765
A striking Derby porcelain figural candlestick from around 1765, representing the Roman god Mars (also known as Ares in Greek mythology) in full armour, posed with sword and shield beneath the sconce. The richly detailed rocaille base features elegant swirled Rococo scrollwork, and bears three typical ‘patch marks' beneath. This piece originates from a thoughtfully assembled collection of early Derby porcelain figures.
Historical Background
The Derby Porcelain factory traces its origins to the late 1740s when Andrew Planché, a Walloon Huguenot refugee, began making simple porcelain animal figurines. In 1756, Staffordshire enameller William Duesbury and banker John Heath partnered with Planché to establish what became the largest porcelain factory of its time. The company expanded by acquiring the bankrupt Chelsea and Bow factories, as well as the stock of other workshops, including that of James Giles. This blend of traditions and craftsmanship allowed Duesbury to establish one of the most prestigious porcelain factories of the 18th and 19th centuries, a legacy that continues today.
At its peak in the 18th century, the Derby Porcelain Manufactory styled itself as "the second Dresden." Duesbury maintained a retail space at The Castle Tavern in Bedford Street, Covent Garden, which served as both a showroom and warehouse. Derby porcelain, some decorated with Imari patterns, was painted in London at the Chelsea premises, creating what became known as Chelsea-Derby porcelain. Eventually, the Chelsea site was closed, and Derby continued independently, gaining Royal patronage and the right to append a crown to its mark—thus, Royal Crown Derby was born. Duesbury also adopted marks from Sèvres, Dresden, and Berlin porcelain, believing his wares to be of comparable, if not superior, quality.
Measurements
Height: 26 cm
Weight: 924 g
Condition
Socket and bobèche spin freely around the metal rod. There is a crack to the socket and restoration to one tip of the bobèche. Small losses to flowers and petals are visible. Restoration is present to the neck, the supporting column at the centre, the base, and where the helmet feather meets the column. Hairline cracks are present on the front of the skirt, the cape beneath the skirt on both the yellow and lilac sides, the right leg, and the purple flag. Fleabites are noted along the edge of the base. Otherwise, the piece is in excellent antique condition with minimal loss of paint and gilding.
I have described the condition as thoroughly as possible. Please review all photos carefully, and if you have any doubts, feel free to request further examination or additional photos.
Shipping & Packaging
Shipped fully tracked and insured.
Shipping cost includes labour, packaging, and postage.
Please feel free to reach out with any questions.
Early Derby Porcelain Mars Figural Candlestick: Rococo Gilt Sconce, c. 1765
£925.00
A striking Derby porcelain figural candlestick from around 1765, representing the Roman god Mars (also known as Ares in Greek mythology) in full armour, posed with sword and shield beneath the sconce. The richly detailed rocaille base features elegant swirled Rococo scrollwork, and bears three typical ‘patch marks' beneath. This piece originates from a thoughtfully assembled collection of early Derby porcelain figures.
Historical Background
The Derby Porcelain factory traces its origins to the late 1740s when Andrew Planché, a Walloon Huguenot refugee, began making simple porcelain animal figurines. In 1756, Staffordshire enameller William Duesbury and banker John Heath partnered with Planché to establish what became the largest porcelain factory of its time. The company expanded by acquiring the bankrupt Chelsea and Bow factories, as well as the stock of other workshops, including that of James Giles. This blend of traditions and craftsmanship allowed Duesbury to establish one of the most prestigious porcelain factories of the 18th and 19th centuries, a legacy that continues today.
At its peak in the 18th century, the Derby Porcelain Manufactory styled itself as "the second Dresden." Duesbury maintained a retail space at The Castle Tavern in Bedford Street, Covent Garden, which served as both a showroom and warehouse. Derby porcelain, some decorated with Imari patterns, was painted in London at the Chelsea premises, creating what became known as Chelsea-Derby porcelain. Eventually, the Chelsea site was closed, and Derby continued independently, gaining Royal patronage and the right to append a crown to its mark—thus, Royal Crown Derby was born. Duesbury also adopted marks from Sèvres, Dresden, and Berlin porcelain, believing his wares to be of comparable, if not superior, quality.
Measurements
Height: 26 cm
Weight: 924 g
Condition
Socket and bobèche spin freely around the metal rod. There is a crack to the socket and restoration to one tip of the bobèche. Small losses to flowers and petals are visible. Restoration is present to the neck, the supporting column at the centre, the base, and where the helmet feather meets the column. Hairline cracks are present on the front of the skirt, the cape beneath the skirt on both the yellow and lilac sides, the right leg, and the purple flag. Fleabites are noted along the edge of the base. Otherwise, the piece is in excellent antique condition with minimal loss of paint and gilding.
I have described the condition as thoroughly as possible. Please review all photos carefully, and if you have any doubts, feel free to request further examination or additional photos.
Shipping & Packaging
Shipped fully tracked and insured.
Shipping cost includes labour, packaging, and postage.
Please feel free to reach out with any questions.