Royal Worcester, Figurines/candlesticks, James Hadley, 1887

A pair of rare and antique Worcester figurine candlesticks in Victorian design, created by James Hadley for Worcester in the late 19th century. The set features a young boy and girl standing beside tree stumps that serve as the candleholders. Each figure is intricately detailed, from the gilded buttons on the boy's clothes to the floral buckles on the girl's shoes. These candlesticks were likely both decorative and functional, embodying the era's fascination with elaborate candle lighting. Each piece bears the Royal Worcester mark on the base and is signed by Hadley on the side, enhancing their appeal and value to collectors.

The Worcester porcelain factory, established in 1751, is one of the oldest porcelain manufacturers in England, renowned for its exceptional craftsmanship and innovation. By the 1870s, operating under the name Worcester Royal Porcelain Company, the factory had expanded its repertoire to include ornate decorative pieces such as figurines and candleholders, alongside its functional wares. This task was entrusted to the celebrated modeler James Hadley, who played a pivotal role in elevating the factory’s reputation for finely detailed figures.

James Hadley, one of the most renowned modelers associated with the Worcester factory in the 19th century, significantly influenced its figurine and ornamental designs. Starting his career at Worcester in the 1850s, Hadley rose to become chief modeler by the late 19th century. He became synonymous with exquisitely crafted figurines often depicting romantic or pastoral themes, including endearing portrayals of children, peasants, and allegorical subjects.

Although Hadley left the Worcester factory in 1875 to establish his own studio, he maintained a strong working relationship with the company. Worcester continued to produce his designs, often marked with his name. Hadley’s works are highly valued by collectors today for their technical mastery and artistic appeal. He has been described by John Sandon (a British expert and prolific author on ceramics and glass) as "probably the finest English modeller of all time." Known for his versatility, Hadley is best remembered for his decorative figures, especially those created in the 1870s and 1880s, when trends shifted from plain white to colored models. Over ten of his porcelain creations are displayed at the Victoria and Albert Museum in London, a testament to his enduring legacy.

Dimensions:

Girl: height 25.5 cm, width 11 cm, depth 11 cm, weight 504 g.

Boy: height 25.5 cm, width 11 cm, depth 11 cm, weight 524 g.

Condition: Excellent condition without chips, cracks, or damages.

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.