Gillers Antiques Ltd has dated this Staffordshire Shakespeare Pottery Bust to the 1800s.
The portrait is based on the well-known Chandos likeness, attributed to John Taylor and believed to have been painted from life circa 1610. This depiction became the canonical image of Shakespeare and was frequently reproduced in ceramic form during the Georgian and early Victorian periods. This bust dates to around 1800 and represents one of the earliest known ceramic versions of Shakespeare. Later copies were produced in larger numbers, especially between 1850 and 1890, but early examples like this are uncommon. The back is hollow with a vent hole, and no maker's mark, as expected for the period. A rare example of Regency-period English ceramic portraiture, highly desirable for collectors of literary, historical, or Staffordshire pottery.
Condition: minor enamel chip to the cloak on the lower right side, small chip to rear corner of base, widespread but stable crackling of the glaze. No restoration. Age-related wear visible, but overall well preserved for its age.
Measurements: height 22.5 cm, width 17 cm, depth 8.5 cm. Weight: 770 g.
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.
Gillers Antiques Ltd has dated this Staffordshire Shakespeare Pottery Bust to the 1800s.
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Staffordshire Pottery Bust of William Shakespeare, England, c.1800
