A striking and rare pair of 19th-century porcelain figural groups by Samson of Paris, circa 1850. These fine Rococo-style compositions are based on a celebrated model from the Bow factory (c.1760) but expanded into a vivid allegory of the Four Seasons, rendered with Samson’s unmistakable flair.
The first group portrays Spring and Summer: Spring sits astride a sheep adorned with floral garlands, Summer reclines with a sheaf of wheat. The second features Autumn and Winter: Autumn holds a bunch of grapes while riding a goat, and Winter huddles beside a brazier. The figures are gracefully modelled nude putti, surrounded by lively scroll bases, flowers, and animals.
Enamelling is rich, colours vibrant, and the gilding precise — all hallmarks of the finest Samson output. Beneath the bases, both the anchor-and-dagger (imitating Bow) and Samson’s reversed geometric mark are present, affirming both homage and authorship.
Edmé Samson’s manufactory (est. 1845) gained its reputation not merely from reproduction, but from academic interpretations of historic porcelain. These pieces exemplify that mission: scholarly, imaginative, and highly decorative.
Measurements:
Right group: 24.3 cm high × 18 cm wide × 12 cm deep, weight 1424g
Left group: 24.5 cm high × 17.5 cm wide × 12.5 cm deep, weight 1427g
Condition: Some minor enamel chips to foliage, professional restoration to sheep’s ear, small firing flaws on underside, and minor loss to goat’s horn and putto thumb.
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.
Antique Number: SA1142039
Dateline of this antique is 1850
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