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Royal Worcester Porcelain Figure Pair “The Breezes” by James Hadley, C. 1865–1878
Ritas Bazaar
for sale €1,638     $1,778
£1,400

Ritas Bazaar

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Royal Worcester Porcelain Figure Pair “The Breezes” by James Hadley, C. 1865–1878

19th century
For Sale by Ritas Bazaar
Description

A superb pair of Royal Worcester porcelain figures from the celebrated “The Breezes” series, modelled by the renowned Royal Worcester sculptor James Hadley and dating to the early years of production, circa 1865–1878.

These elegant Victorian figures embody the romantic naturalism and graceful movement for which Hadley became famous. One figure is depicted with her face open to the viewer, while her companion leans dramatically into the wind, creating a highly successful pendant composition. Together they form one of Royal Worcester's most charming and recognisable figural groups.

The present cream-glazed version is particularly desirable. Among the various colourways produced for this model, the cream-ground examples are believed to be the earliest and are considerably scarcer than the more commonly encountered white and coloured versions. The subtle cream tone gives the porcelain greater warmth and depth than pure white examples, while the distinctive black button detail provides a striking visual contrast that beautifully accents the overall palette.

James Hadley joined Royal Worcester in the mid-19th century and became one of the factory's most influential modellers. His figures are admired for their fluid movement, expressive modelling and remarkable ability to capture fabric and gesture. The swirling drapery of "The Breezes" demonstrates these qualities particularly well, creating a sense of movement rarely achieved in Victorian porcelain.

The figures display beautifully and remain among the most sought-after Royal Worcester models of the Victorian period.

Measurements

Open-faced figure

Height: 28.5 cm / 11.2″

Base diameter: 10 cm / 3.9″

Weight: 731 g

Leaning figure

Height: 26.3 cm / 10.4″

Width: 10 cm / 3.9″

Depth: 12 cm / 4.7″

Weight: 848 g

Condition

The open-faced figure is in magnificent antique condition. The leaning figure remains in excellent antique condition. Both display exceptionally well, with attractive surface preservation and strong decorative presence.

Please study all photographs as they form part of the description.

Questions are welcome.

Physical Dimensions
Height
28.5cm (11.22")
Width
10cm (3.94")
Depth
12cm (4.72")
Declaration

Ritas Bazaar has dated this Victorian Porcelain Figure Pair to the Victorian era.

Reference Numbers
Sellingantiques Reference
SA1216758
Dealers Internal Reference
B1751
Description
A superb pair of Royal Worcester porcelain figures from the celebrated “The Breezes” series, modelled by the renowned Royal Worcester sculptor James Hadley and dating to the early years of production, circa 1865–1878.
These elegant Victorian figures embody the romantic naturalism and graceful movement for which Hadley became famous.
Ritas Bazaar

One figure is depicted with her face open to the viewer, while her companion leans dramatically into the wind, creating a highly successful pendant composition. Together they form one of Royal Worcester's most charming and recognisable figural groups.

fig 1. A pair of Victorian cream-glazed porcelain figures depicting classical female forms with flowing drapery set on circular bases.
fig 1. Royal Worcester Porcelain Figure Pair “The Breezes” by James Hadley, C. 1865–1878

The present cream-glazed version is particularly desirable. Among the various colourways produced for this model, the cream-ground examples are believed to be the earliest and are considerably scarcer than the more commonly encountered white and coloured versions. The subtle cream tone gives the porcelain greater warmth and depth than pure white examples, while the distinctive black button detail provides a striking visual contrast that beautifully accents the overall palette.

fig 2. A pair of Victorian cream-glazed porcelain figures depicting classical female forms with flowing drapery set on circular bases.
fig 2. Royal Worcester Porcelain Figure Pair “The Breezes” by James Hadley, C. 1865–1878

James Hadley joined Royal Worcester in the mid-19th century and became one of the factory's most influential modellers. His figures are admired for their fluid movement, expressive modelling and remarkable ability to capture fabric and gesture. The swirling drapery of "The Breezes" demonstrates these qualities particularly well, creating a sense of movement rarely achieved in Victorian porcelain.

fig 3. A pair of Victorian cream-glazed porcelain figures depicting classical female forms with flowing drapery set on circular bases.
fig 3. Royal Worcester Porcelain Figure Pair “The Breezes” by James Hadley, C. 1865–1878

The figures display beautifully and remain among the most sought-after Royal Worcester models of the Victorian period.

Measurements

Open-faced figure

Height: 28.5 cm / 11.2″

Base diameter: 10 cm / 3.9″

Weight: 731 g

fig 4. A pair of Victorian cream-glazed porcelain figures depicting classical female forms with flowing drapery set on circular bases.
fig 4. Royal Worcester Porcelain Figure Pair “The Breezes” by James Hadley, C. 1865–1878

Leaning figure

Height: 26.3 cm / 10.4″

Width: 10 cm / 3.9″

Depth: 12 cm / 4.7″

Weight: 848 g

Condition

The open-faced figure is in magnificent antique condition. The leaning figure remains in excellent antique condition. Both display exceptionally well, with attractive surface preservation and strong decorative presence.

Please study all photographs as they form part of the description.

Questions are welcome.

Height
28.5cm (11.22")
Width
10cm (3.94")
Depth
12cm (4.72")
Date of Manufacture

Ritas Bazaar has dated this Victorian Porcelain Figure Pair to the Victorian era.

Reference Numbers
Sellingantiques Ref
SA1216758
Dealers Internal Ref
B1751
Ritas Bazaar
Sellingantiques verified Since Nov 2025
Dealer Profile

You can view the stock and full dealer information on the Ritas Bazaar Profile Page

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A pair of Victorian cream-glazed porcelain figures depicting classical female forms with flowing drapery set on circular bases.
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Archive I A pair of Victorian cream-glazed porcelain figures depicting classical female forms with flowing drapery set on circular bases.

Royal Worcester Porcelain Figure Pair “The Breezes” by James Hadley, C. 1865–1878

Archive II A pair of Victorian cream-glazed porcelain figures depicting classical female forms with flowing drapery set on circular bases. View II
Archive III A pair of Victorian cream-glazed porcelain figures depicting classical female forms with flowing drapery set on circular bases. View III
Archive IV A pair of Victorian cream-glazed porcelain figures depicting classical female forms with flowing drapery set on circular bases. View IV
Archive V A pair of Victorian cream-glazed porcelain figures depicting classical female forms with flowing drapery set on circular bases. View V
Archive VI A pair of Victorian cream-glazed porcelain figures depicting classical female forms with flowing drapery set on circular bases. View VI
Archive VII A pair of Victorian cream-glazed porcelain figures depicting classical female forms with flowing drapery set on circular bases. View VII
Archive VIII A pair of Victorian cream-glazed porcelain figures depicting classical female forms with flowing drapery set on circular bases. View VIII
Archive IX A pair of Victorian cream-glazed porcelain figures depicting classical female forms with flowing drapery set on circular bases. View IX
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A pair of Victorian cream-glazed porcelain figures depicting classical female forms with flowing drapery set on circular bases.
Royal Worcester porcelain figure pair “The Breezes” by James Hadley, c. 1865–1878
Ref: SA1216758
A pair of Victorian cream-glazed porcelain figures depicting classical female forms with flowing drapery set on circular bases.
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Antiques are the ultimate green purchase. By choosing historical pieces over newly manufactured goods, you completely eliminate the carbon footprint of modern mass production while preserving exceptional, timeless craftsmanship.

Porcelain and parian figures from the mid-to-late nineteenth century were developed to imitate carved marble, frequently depicting classical classical or allegorical subjects representing elements, virtues, or seasons.

These figures were produced using refined porcelain or parian clay mixtures, slip-cast in plaster moulds, and finished by hand prior to firing to achieve detailed anatomical features and flowing drapery.

Authentic pieces feature printed or impressed Royal Worcester factory marks on the underside, model numbers, and often maker signatures or initials, alongside crisp, precise surface modelling.

Pairing classical ivory figures against dark wood surfaces, such as on a sideboard, mantelpiece, or within a glass display cabinet, creates a refined historical focal point in modern or traditional settings.

Dust surfaces regularly using a soft dry brush, avoiding harsh chemicals, water submersion, or abrasive cloths that could damage subtle surface glazes or delicate extremities.
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