Condition Notes: The figurine is in good vintage condition. There are no chips, cracks, or significant damage visible on the piece. The hand-painted details and overall finish remain well-preserved, consistent with careful handling over time.pls see the pics for details.
Antique: Yes
Type: Figurine/Statue
Original/Repro: Original
Material: Porcelain
Country/Region: United Kingdom
Maker: Samson of Paris
Country of Origin: France
This exquisite porcelain cat figurine, crafted by Samson of Paris in the "Staffordshire" style, embodies the charming aesthetic of antique English pottery. This piece is particularly notable for bearing the distinctive red Chelsea anchor mark, indicating its production as a decorative item referencing earlier porcelain traditions. The cat is beautifully rendered with handpainted details, making it a desirable collectible for enthusiasts of vintage porcelain and feline artistry.
Product Details:
Brand: Samson of Paris
Style: "Staffordshire" Style Porcelain
Marking: Red Chelsea Anchor Mark on base
Type: Decorative Cat Figurine
Material: Porcelain
Color: White with handpainted details
Features: Inspired by 18thcentury English porcelain
Height: Approximately 6.5 cm (2.5 inches)
Design Highlights:
The figurine showcases a cat with elegant proportions and a serene expression, typical of the "Staffordshire" style, which often featured whimsical and characterful animals. The handpainted details accentuate its features, capturing the timeless appeal of these beloved collectibles.
Condition:
The figurine is in good vintage condition. There are no chips, cracks, or significant damage visible on the piece. The handpainted details and overall finish remain wellpreserved, consistent with careful handling over time. pls see the pics for details.
About Samson of Paris and the Chelsea Anchor Mark:
Samson, Edmé et Cie, a prominent porcelain manufacturer based in Paris, France, was active from 1845 to 1969. They were renowned for their exceptional reproductions and reinterpretations of antique porcelain from various famous factories, including Meissen, Chelsea, and Derby. Samson's aim was not to deceive, but to make historical styles accessible, often using marks similar to the originals, but typically with a subtle distinguishing feature or variations.
The Chelsea Anchor mark was originally used by the Chelsea Porcelain Manufactory, one of England's earliest and most important porcelain factories, which operated from around 1743 to 1784. Their anchor marks, particularly the red anchor (used from approximately 17521756), are highly coveted by collectors. Samson's use of this mark on their 'Staffordshire' style porcelain cats indicates their tribute to these classic English designs, creating beautiful and highquality decorative items that pay homage to historical porcelain artistry. This piece represents a fascinating crosscultural interpretation in the history of ceramics.