{"product_id":"samson-et-cie-porcelain-figurines-venus-and-mercury-rococo-revival","title":"Samson et Cie Porcelain Figurines: Venus and Mercury, Rococo Revival","description":"This rare pair of Paris porcelain figures by Samson et Cie, circa 1850s, represents Mercury, god of trade and communication, and Venus, goddess of love and beauty, from classical Roman mythology — or Hermes and Aphrodite in the Greek tradition. Finely modelled and delicately hand-painted in soft pastel enamel colours with gilt highlights, these figures reflect the Historicist revival of classical themes that flourished in 19th-century French porcelain production.\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003cbr\u003e\nMercury is depicted nude apart from a flowing yellow cloak, wearing his distinctive winged helmet and leaning casually against a classical column. In his left hand, he carries the caduceus, the herald's staff entwined with serpents, while a purse rests under his right arm, symbolizing his role as patron of commerce. Venus stands gracefully atop a stylized scallop shell, modestly draped, with flowing hair — a reference to her mythical birth from the sea and a nod to Renaissance interpretations of the goddess, notably Botticelli's The Birth of Venus.\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003cbr\u003e\nThe figures are raised on pierced Rococo Revival scrollwork bases, enriched with soft floral accents and fine gilt detailing. Each is marked underneath with Samson's hand-painted six-pointed star or asterisk in underglaze blue, a typical mark used by the manufactory during the mid-19th century.\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 in the styles of earlier European manufactories such as Meissen, Sèvres, Worcester, Derby, and Chelsea. Originally supplying collectors with faithful reproductions, Samson's work is now valued for its fine modelling, vivid enamelling, and important role in the tradition of Historicist decorative arts.\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003cbr\u003e\nMeasurements\u003cbr\u003e\nHeight (Venus): 15 cm \/ 5.9″\u003cbr\u003e\nHeight (Mercury): 14.2 cm \/ 5.6″\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003cbr\u003e\nCondition\u003cbr\u003e\nVery good antique condition, with vivid colours, crisp modelling, and strong decorative presence. Venus is intact with no chips, cracks, or restorations. Mercury retains all major details, with only a small loss to the right wing of his helmet. Minor surface wear to the gilding, consistent with age and handling. Both figures display beautifully and retain excellent visual 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 shipping on this lot\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":62884566008138,"sku":"B1235","price":505.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1066\/5351\/6106\/files\/il_fullxfull.6790123122_owlo.jpg?v=1785915666","url":"https:\/\/gillersantiques.com\/products\/samson-et-cie-porcelain-figurines-venus-and-mercury-rococo-revival","provider":"Gillers Antiques","version":"1.0","type":"link"}