Antique 19thC Parian Ware Figural Group Naomi and Her Daughters in Law D'Este Item Specifics| Field | Value |
|---|
| Brand / Maker | Este Ceramiche Porcellane (Italy) |
| Material | Parian Ware / Bisque Porcelain |
| Type | Figurine / Statue / Sculptural Group |
| Subject | Naomi and Her Daughters-in-Law (Ruth & Orpah) |
| Style | Victorian / Neoclassical |
| Time Period Manufactured | 1850-1899 (19th Century) |
| Origin | Italy (Features French title inscription) |
| Markings | Incised "d'Este", "Les Bergers", Blue Snowflake / Star Mark |
| Condition | Used (Antique condition with minor damage; see description) |
| Dimensions | 13.25" H x 10" L x 7.5" W |
📝 Detailed Item Description
Title: Rare Antique 19th Century Parian Ware Figural Group – "Naomi and Her Daughters-in-Law"
Description:Up for sale is a stunningly detailed, large 19th-century Victorian Parian ware (statuary porcelain) sculptural group depicting the biblical scene of
Naomi and Her Daughters-in-Law (Ruth and Orpah). This elegant piece captures the emotional farewell scene from the Book of Ruth, meticulously modeled with exquisite drapery, fine facial features, and classical proportions. [
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The base features the incised English title "Naomi and Her Daughters-in-Law", alongside the artisan/factory incised marks "d'Este" and "Les Bergers" on the upper base rockwork, accompanied by a distinct hand-painted underglaze blue snowflake/star factory mark.
Condition Report:
This antique piece is in beautiful display condition with a smooth, matte marble-like finish.
- Damage: There is a cleanly broken/missing index finger on the standing figure's left hand (as shown in the close-up photos).
- Wear: Shows minor surface scuffs, tiny spots of antique grime/discoloration in the crevices, and light cosmetic wear consistent with a 150-year-old sculpture.
- No other major cracks, chips, or restorations detected. Please review all gallery photos carefully to evaluate the exact condition.
🌟 Rarity & Historical Insights
- The Subject Matter: While individual parian figures are common, large, complex three-figure narrative groups like this one are highly desirable and significantly rare.
- The Manufacturer Information: While the previous listing attributed the piece to France due to the script style, the markings actually trace back to Este Ceramiche Porcellane. Established in the 18th century in Este, Italy, it is one of the oldest active ceramic factories in Europe.
- Decoding the Marks: The script mark "d'Este" signifies the town of production (or the historical connection to the noble House of Este). The blue star/snowflake mark is a recorded historical backstamp variant for fine porcelain items from the Este region. The phrase "Les Bergers" (French for The Shepherds) likely points to a specific model series, a French design collaboration, or an exhibition submission intended for the 19th-century French market, where high-end Italian porcelain was highly prized.
Keep in mind the shipping price also covers handling fees, packaging materials & time, not just postage.
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