{"product_id":"rare-derby-porcelain-figural-candlesticks-basket-shepherds-circa-1765","title":"Rare Derby Porcelain Figural Candlesticks: Basket Shepherds, Circa 1765","description":"Two Derby Porcelain Figural Bocage Candlesticks of \"The Basket Shepherds\", Circa 1765\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003cbr\u003e\nA rare pair of Derby porcelain figural candlesticks, one depicting a gentleman with a basket and the other a lady with fruit and flowers. Both figures stand against a backdrop of bocage, with candlestick sconce holders at the top. The bases feature 'patch marks,' characteristic of Derby porcelain from this period. Similar figurines were sold at Christie's in 2015 (https:\/\/www.christies.com\/en\/lot\/lot-5913102). These pieces are part of a carefully curated collection of Derby porcelain figurines gathered over many years.\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003cbr\u003e\nHistorical Background\u003cbr\u003e\nThe Derby Porcelain factory traces its origins to the late 1740s, when Andrew Planché, a Walloon Huguenot refugee, began crafting simple porcelain animal toys. In 1756, Staffordshire enameller William Duesbury and banker John Heath partnered with Planché to establish a porcelain factory, which grew to be the largest of its time. The factory acquired the Chelsea and Bow porcelain workshops and incorporated the stock of artisans such as James Giles. This combination of traditions, porcelain-making skills, and a discerning clientele enabled Duesbury to elevate Derby to one of the premier porcelain manufacturers of the 18th and 19th centuries, a legacy that continues today.\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003cbr\u003e\nDuring the 18th century, Derby porcelain enjoyed peak popularity, with the factory marketing itself as \"the second Dresden.\" Duesbury maintained an independent retail space at The Castle Tavern in Covent Garden, serving as both an exhibition and sales venue. The factory's porcelain was often painted in London at the Chelsea site, giving rise to the \"Chelsea Derby\" line. After the Chelsea site closed, the Derby name continued independently, gaining Royal patronage, which led to the formation of Royal Crown Derby. Notably, Duesbury even replicated marks from Sèvres, Dresden, and Berlin, as he believed Derby porcelain was of equal or superior quality.\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003cbr\u003e\nAntique British porcelain often exhibits imperfections due to historical production methods. Kilns fired on coal in the 18th century resulted in firing specks, and experimental techniques sometimes led to minor flaws. Natural shrinkage in the kiln could produce hairline cracks or crazing over time. Many pieces were used extensively, leading to expected wear, slight gilt fading, and small chips, all of which should be considered part of their historical character rather than damage.\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003cbr\u003e\nMeasurements\u003cbr\u003e\nGentleman:\u003cbr\u003e\nHeight: 26 cm\u003cbr\u003e\nWeight: 1440 g\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003cbr\u003e\nLady:\u003cbr\u003e\nHeight: 26 cm\u003cbr\u003e\nWeight: 1238 g\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003cbr\u003e\nCondition\u003cbr\u003e\nGentleman: Some hairline cracks, losses to the bottom tip of the jacket, crack to the column behind the yellow breeches, and restorations to the feet, part of the rocaille base, and base of the column. Minor and medium losses to leaves and petals, as well as restoration to some parts of the bocage, mainly at the top. Excess glazing on the bottom of the basket and several spots on the base. Possible restoration to the hat. Several small chips and fleabites to the reverse of the base. Restoration to part of the right hand and basket.\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003cbr\u003e\nLady: Likely restoration to the hat, hair, and possibly the face. Restoration to the neck extending under the bow, as well as to the flowers in the basket. Two hairline cracks and two larger cracks on the reverse of the base. Restoration to bocage on the reverse, mostly at the top and along the left side. Crack to the rocaille swirl behind the right foot. Small chip and two hairline cracks on the blue swirl to the right of the left foot.\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003cbr\u003e\nThe condition has been described in extensive detail, but please carefully review all photos. If you require additional images or further clarification, feel free to ask.\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003cbr\u003e\nShipping \u0026amp; Packaging\u003cbr\u003e\nShipped fully tracked and insured.\u003cbr\u003e\nShipping cost includes labour, packaging, and postage.\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003cbr\u003e\nPlease do not hesitate to ask any questions before purchasing.\u003cbr\u003e\n","brand":"Gillers Antiques","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":62886100369738,"sku":null,"price":1500.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1066\/5351\/6106\/files\/il_fullxfull.6780565157_sa7r.jpg?v=1785925436","url":"https:\/\/gillersantiques.com\/products\/rare-derby-porcelain-figural-candlesticks-basket-shepherds-circa-1765","provider":"Gillers Antiques","version":"1.0","type":"link"}