{"product_id":"samson-cie-porcelain-figurines-poseidon-and-hephaestus-greek-mythology-historicist-style-rococo-revival-old-paris-porcelain-c-1850s","title":"Samson \u0026 Cie porcelain figurines, Poseidon and Hephaestus, Greek mythology, Historicist style, Rococo Revival Old Paris porcelain, c. 1850s","description":"A rare pair of Paris porcelain figurines by Samson \u0026amp; Cie, dating to circa 1850s. These finely modelled figures represent Poseidon, god of the sea, and Hephaestus, god of fire and metalworking, from classical Greek mythology — known as Neptune and Vulcan in the Roman tradition.\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003cbr\u003e\nCreated in the Historicist spirit of the mid-19th century, they combine Neoclassical subject matter with Rococo Revival ornamentation. The pierced scrollwork bases and vibrant enamel decoration reflect the 19th-century French revival of earlier European styles, particularly those of the renowned German and French porcelain manufactories of the 18th century.\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003cbr\u003e\nPoseidon is depicted nude, draped with a flowing purple mantle, accompanied by a finely detailed hippocampus (mythological sea creature) at his feet. Hephaestus, wearing a dark robe and burgundy cap, stands beside an anvil and holds the tip of a hammer handle, symbolising his role as the divine craftsman.\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003cbr\u003e\nEach figure bears the distinct blue underglaze Samson mark on the underside — a characteristic star-like symbol used by the manufactory during this period, reflecting Samson's tradition of emulating earlier European porcelain marks.\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003cbr\u003e\nHistorical Background\u003cbr\u003e\nFounded by Edmé Samson in Paris around 1845, Samson, Edmé et Cie became renowned for producing high-quality porcelain inspired by the classic styles of earlier European manufactories, such as Meissen, Sèvres, Worcester, Derby, and Chelsea. Originally intended to supply collectors with faithful reproductions, Samson's pieces are today valued for their fine modelling, vivid enamels, and contribution to the 19th-century tradition of Historicist decorative arts.\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003cbr\u003e\nMeasurements\u003cbr\u003e\nHeight: 14.5 cm \/ 5.7″\u003cbr\u003e\nTotal weight: 396 g\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003cbr\u003e\nCondition\u003cbr\u003e\nAttractive overall antique condition, with vivid colours, crisp modelling, and strong visual presence. Hephaestus retains the tip of the hammer handle, although the remainder is missing, and there is a chip to the little finger of his left hand. Poseidon originally held a rod, now absent. Minor surface wear to the gilding and typical firing imperfections are present. Despite these losses, both figures present beautifully and retain excellent decorative appeal.\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003cbr\u003e\nShipping \u0026amp; Packaging\u003cbr\u003e\n- Fully tracked and insured delivery\u003cbr\u003e\n- We are pleased to offer free worldwide delivery on these figurines\u003cbr\u003e\n- Carefully packed using recycled materials where possible\u003cbr\u003e\n- Customs paperwork provided where necessary for smooth international delivery\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003cbr\u003e\nPlease review all photographs carefully, as they form part of the description, and feel free to ask any questions.\u003cbr\u003e\n","brand":"Gillers Antiques","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":62884584390986,"sku":"B1232","price":505.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1066\/5351\/6106\/files\/il_fullxfull.6837905255_fu9s.jpg?v=1785915793","url":"https:\/\/gillersantiques.com\/products\/samson-cie-porcelain-figurines-poseidon-and-hephaestus-greek-mythology-historicist-style-rococo-revival-old-paris-porcelain-c-1850s","provider":"Gillers Antiques","version":"1.0","type":"link"}