A finely modelled pair of 19th-century porcelain figures attributed to the Samson workshop in Paris, inspired by the mid-18th-century Derby group known as “The Idyllic Musicians” or “Pipe and Tabor Figures.” The male figure holds a flageolet and originally played a tabor (small side drum) with a stick in the other hand, now missing. The female figure holds a triangle, with the small striker originally in her left hand also now lost. Despite these losses, the original hand gestures and instrument fragments clearly reflect the design and iconography of the c.1760 Derby prototypes. The underglaze mark on the base imitates the crossed batons used by the Derby factory and is executed in purple — a color occasionally employed by Samson to distinguish his reinterpretations from the originals.                                                                             The pair exemplifies Samson’s characteristic combination of historical fidelity and 19th-century artistic reinterpretation. The porcelain has a warm tone and matte glaze, consistent with Samson’s revivalist approach to English porcelain.

Condition and Dimensions:

Male figure: Height 21 cm, width 10 cm, depth 11 cm, weight 506 g. Missing the tabor stick, with chips to green leaves, small chip to the bow on the wrist, minor enamel wear, and a small chip at the back of the base.

Female figure: Height 21 cm, width 11 cm, depth 9.5 cm, weight 482 g. Missing the triangle striker in the left hand, with several chips to leaves and minor enamel losses.

Both figures are otherwise in very good antique condition, with excellent preservation of the facial features and costumes.

Please study the accompanying photographs carefully as they form an integral part of this description. If you have any questions, we will be happy to answer them. The item will be shipped with full tracking and insurance. It is important to note that shipping costs include labour, packaging and postage.