James Hadley for Royal Worcester Large “cairo Water Carrier”, Patent Metallic, 1886

A monumental Royal Worcester figure of the “Cairo Water Carrier,” produced in 1886 from a model by James Hadley, one of the factory’s major late Victorian Orientalist models. At 49.5 cm high and weighing 2825 grams, this is a large-scale Worcester display figure from the period when the factory was producing some of its most ambitious sculptural works.

The subject shows an Eastern water carrier holding a large amphora, dressed in flowing robes and turban. Worcester produced this model in several sizes and decorative schemes, including lighter ivory-based examples, polychrome versions and other enamelled colourways. The Patent Metallic examples are among the most desirable, especially the bronze-gold robed version seen here, with pale lilac sleeves, dark sash and soft green turban.

The underside bears the printed PATENT METALLIC designation, referring to Royal Worcester’s patented metallic decorative process rather than ordinary enamel decoration. This specialised 1880s finish was used on higher-grade display models to create the richness of metal surfaces through ceramic decoration. The Royal Worcester date letter X confirms 1886 production, and the impressed Hadley signature identifies the sculptural design.

James Hadley was one of Royal Worcester’s leading modellers and played an important role in the factory’s reputation for large figural porcelain. His Orientalist models, including the Cairo Water Carrier, remain among the most recognisable Worcester figures.

Large examples of this model are especially sought after because they combine exhibition scale, early date, identifiable designer, Patent Metallic finish and one of Worcester’s best-known Orientalist compositions.

Dimensions

Height: 49.5 cm

Width: 20 cm

Depth: 18 cm

Weight: 2825 g

Condition

Magnificent antique condition. Excellent preservation of the Patent Metallic finish, modelling and decorative detail. A superbly preserved large-scale example.

Shipping & Packaging

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