A Pair of Shepherd and Shepherdess Statuettes Made of Royal Dux Porcelain

Royal Dux porcelain is a type of fine porcelain that was first produced in the town of Duchcov (now Czech Republic) in the late 19th century. The company was founded in 1853 by Eduard Eichler, a skilled potter and entrepreneur. In 1860 the company began producing fine porcelain wares, and in 1896 the Emperor of Austria Franz Joseph I granted it the status of "supplier to the imperial and royal court". In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Royal Dux became known for its innovative designs and high quality workmanship. The company became particularly famous for its statuettes, which depicted a variety of subjects: animals, children, historical figures. One of the most characteristic features of Royal Dux porcelain is its trademark white matte glaze, which gives the products a soft, velvety texture. The company also produced pieces with glossy glazes and a variety of decorative techniques, including hand-painting, gilding and relief. During the 20th century, Royal Dux continued to produce high quality porcelain wares, but the company faced many challenges, including economic recession, two world wars, and changing consumer tastes. At the end of the 20th century, the company faced financial difficulties and was eventually nationalised by the communist government of Czechoslovakia. After the fall of the communist regime in 1989, Royal Dux was privatised and returned to private ownership. Today, the company continues to produce fine porcelain items including figurines, vases and other decorative objects. Royal Dux porcelain continues to be highly prized by collectors and enthusiasts around the world for its beauty, craftsmanship and historical significance.

A pair of standing statuettes of a shepherd and a shepherdess in Royal Dux porcelain: the shepherd holding a pipe, her holding a shepherd's crook, both accompanied by sheep and goats, decorated in blush ivory and gilding.

Belongs to the highest segment of the price range of Royal Dux products. Every detail has been carefully worked out, especially the expressive faces. Even the faces of sheep and goats - not all Royal Dux figurines are so carefully worked out.

Pink triangular stamps, imprints nos. 135 and 136.

The period of production is around 1900-1912 - the shepherd and shepherdess figures were produced later, this is the earliest version.

Shepherd

Height: 39,5 cm

Weight: 1287 g

Pattern: 135

Identification mark: Royal Dux 'E' letter at the bottom.

The figure depicts a shepherd with a sheep at his feet, pipe in his hands, pelt on his shoulders, flask and knife on his belt. The condition is excellent, with no visible signs of damage or loss of paint.

This is a rare find - shepherds in similar sculptures usually do not have pipe given their fragility. But our shepherd's flute is in excellent condition.

Shepherdess

Height: 38 cm

Weight: 1318 g

Pattern: 136

Identification mark: Royal Dux 'E' at the bottom.

The shepherdess figurine depicts a goat at her feet, a crook in her hand and a hide on her shoulder. The figurine is in excellent condition, with no visible signs of damage or loss of paint. The shepherdess with the original staff is a rarity for such figurines: they are usually sold without a staff or, at best, with a stick. In this case, the shepherdess is holding the original porcelain staff, which enhances the authenticity of the piece.

Please look carefully at the photos - they are part of the description.

Item will be sent fully tracked and insured.

Please note cost of shipping includes labour, packaging and postage.