Pair of Vintage Staffordshire Dogs by William Kent | Gold Lustre Decoration | c.1940s–1950s

Product Description This wonderfully expressive pair of vintage Staffordshire Dogs by William Kent has the sort of faces that are difficult not to smile at. Their wide amber eyes and rich red muzzles give them a slightly curious, endearing expression, while their upright seated pose creates a handsome and well-balanced pair. Against the soft cream glaze, scattered hand-painted gold markings bring out the gently modelled texture of their coats. Each dog wears a warm gold lustre collar, pendant and chain, giving the pair a rich and distinctive finish. The surface is covered with fine, intentionally created crazing, characteristic of many William Kent pieces. Designed to recreate the softly aged appearance of earlier Staffordshire pottery, it gives the cream glaze a gentle depth and antique character. William Kent, a respected Staffordshire manufacturer established in 1894, produced expressive ceramic figures, including dogs, cats and flat-back ornaments, until 1962. Thought to date from around the 1940s–1950s, both dogs bear the “Staffordshire Ware Kent Made in England” backstamp on the base. As the photographs show, the pale glaze and warm red and gold tones look especially striking against a traditional dark fireplace. The pair works well in English country house and grandmillennial interiors, where patterned textiles, dark wood and brass are layered together. Their clean, balanced shape and playful expressions also work beautifully in modern and eclectic interiors, adding warmth and character without feeling overly traditional. Key Features Pair of vintage Staffordshire Dogs by William Kent Believed to date from around the 1940s–1950s Expressive amber eyes and rich red muzzles Soft cream glaze with hand-painted gold markings Gold lustre collars, pendants and chains Fine, intentionally created crazing characteristic of William Kent pieces “Staffordshire Ware Kent Made in England” backstamp on both bases Size Each (H) 23cm (W) 21cm (D) 7cm Condition Both dogs are in lovely vintage condition, with the hand-painted and lustre decoration remaining bright and attractive. Fine crazing is present throughout, characteristic of William Kent pieces and adding to their gently aged appearance. One dog has a small chip at the back near the paw. It is discreetly positioned and is not visible when the pair is displayed from the front. The price has been adjusted to reflect this. Please refer to the photographs for further detail.