Rare Chelsea-Derby Porcelain Figure of a Putto Dressed as Young Hercules, c. 1775

This figurine depicts a putto dressed as young Hercules, wearing the skin of the Nemean lion. This example originates from a meticulously curated collection of early Derby porcelain figurines, gathered over many years.

Historical Background

The Derby Porcelain factory has its roots in the late 1740s, when Andrew Planché, a Walloon Huguenot refugee, began producing simple porcelain toys shaped like animals. In 1756, Staffordshire enameller William Duesbury and banker John Heath partnered with Planché to establish a new porcelain factory, which grew into the largest of its time. The factory acquired the bankrupt Chelsea and Bow factories, as well as the stock of several workshops, including that of James Giles. This merging of traditions, porcelain-making skills, and a sophisticated clientele enabled Duesbury to create one of the finest porcelain factories of the 18th and 19th centuries, which remains in operation today.

At its peak in the 18th century, the factory proclaimed itself “the second Dresden.” Duesbury operated a retail space at The Castle Tavern in Bedford Street, Covent Garden, which served as both a warehouse and an exhibition area. Derby porcelain was often hand-painted, including Imari patterns, at the Chelsea premises. This production became known as Chelsea-Derby, but after the closure of the Chelsea site, the Derby name continued independently. Continued royal patronage eventually led to the addition of a crown to the trademark, giving rise to Royal Crown Derby Porcelain.

Duesbury also replicated marks from Sèvres, Dresden, and Berlin porcelain, believing his wares to be superior to all but these three European sources.

Measurements

Height: 10 cm
Weight: 76 g

Condition

Excellent antique condition. No signs of damage or repair. Some wear to glaze on the boy’s face and arms, light wear to enamel, and pinpricks and small nicks to the glaze on the light-green areas of the cape.

Antique British porcelain is rarely perfect. Kilns were fired with coal in the 18th and 19th centuries, often resulting in firing specks from flying particles. British makers were known for experimentation, sometimes leading to technically imperfect results. Kiln shrinkage could cause minor firing lines or crazing over time, which should be seen as characteristics of the production process rather than damage. Normal signs of wear, minor scratches, nicks, stains, and gilt disintegration are common in vintage porcelain and should be taken into account.

Please carefully review all photos as they form part of the description. If there are any questions, please ask prior to purchase.

Shipping & Packaging

Please feel free to ask any questions.