Rare Pair of Antique Victorian Staffordshire ‘Disraeli’ Dogs, c.1880

Product Description A rare and highly characterful pair of antique Victorian Staffordshire ‘Disraeli’ spaniel dogs, dating from around 1880. Decorated in a striking black-and-white palette, each dog has a peach-pink muzzle, bright yellow eyes, black ears and tail, and beautifully preserved hand-painted facial details. The distinctive black curls painted across their foreheads identify them as ‘Disraeli’ dogs, named after the recognisable hairstyle of Victorian Prime Minister Benjamin Disraeli. Their separately modelled front legs, rounded forms and expressive faces distinguish them from more commonly found Staffordshire spaniels and add to their collector appeal. Although clearly made as a pair, the individually painted markings and subtle differences in their expressions give each dog its own personality. Displayed together, they make a striking focal point on a mantelpiece, console table, bookcase or deep shelf, bringing character and a wonderfully individual piece of nineteenth-century English design to a modern interior. The pair has several hairline cracks, which are reflected in the price, but both figures remain firm, stable and highly decorative. Key Features Rare matched pair of antique Staffordshire ‘Disraeli’ spaniel dogs English, Victorian period, circa 1880 Hand-painted glazed earthenware Distinctive black Disraeli curls across the foreheads Black-and-white decoration with peach-pink muzzles and yellow eyes Separately modelled front legs and rounded bodies Well-preserved and highly expressive facial decoration Suitable for display on a mantelpiece, console, bookcase or shelf An unusual pair for collectors of antique Staffordshire pottery and dog figures Size Approximate measurements for each dog: (H) 23 cm (W) 18 cm (D) 11 cm Condition The hand-painted decoration remains remarkably well preserved, particularly the expressive facial details. There is a small area of paint loss to the right eye of the right-hand dog, together with only minor wear elsewhere. Both figures have several hairline cracks, including longer hairlines around the neck, chest and body, and a hairline to one front paw. Some may date from manufacture, although this cannot be confirmed. There is also age-related crazing and minor surface marking consistent with their age. Despite these condition issues, both figures remain firm and stable, with no movement, and display beautifully as a pair. The condition has been reflected in the price. Both figures have been carefully cleaned and are ready to display. Each dog will be individually wrapped, securely cushioned and packed with particular care for safe transit. Please refer to the photographs for further details.