What are Staffordshire flatback figures?

Staffordshire flatback figures are earthenware ornaments produced in the nineteenth century with a detailed front and a flat, unpainted back. They were designed specifically for display on mantelpieces where only the front would be seen. Potters created these to depict contemporary events, royal figures, theatrical performers, and popular animals, providing affordable household decoration for the Victorian home.

How were earthenware pottery figures used?

These figures served primarily as decorative ornaments on mantelpieces, sideboards, and brackets in nineteenth-century parlours. Some variations, such as spill vases and cow creamers, combined decoration with practical household utility. Animal figures, including comforter spaniels and greyhounds, were often arranged in pairs to balance the symmetry of a fireplace mantel.

What is a pottery spill vase?

A pottery spill vase is a figural group incorporating a vertical tubular socket next to the main subject. These sockets held wooden tapers used for transferring fire from the hearth to lamps or pipes. Commonly found featuring animals like sheep or lions, they combined sculptural charm with everyday domestic usefulness.

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These earthenware pottery figurines span centuries of domestic modelling, bringing characterful dogs, portrait figures and animals straight to the mantelpiece.

Ming Dynasty Attendant Figure (1368-1644)

17th century

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Ming Dynasty Attendant Figure (1368-1644)

From Roy Precious - Antiques & Fine Art

£685

3+ MONTHS AGO

sculptures

Pair of Antique Staffordshire Dogs C1860

19th century

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Pair of Antique Staffordshire Dogs C1860

From Shaun King Antiques

£265

3+ MONTHS AGO

ceramics

Rare 'Babes in the Wood' Staffordshire Figure

19th century

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Rare 'Babes in the Wood' Staffordshire Figure

From Prometheus Antiques

£120

3+ MONTHS AGO

vases

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Earthenware Pottery Figurines

Ming Dynasty Attendant Figure (1368-1644)

Pair of Antique Staffordshire Dogs C1860

Rare 'Babes in the Wood' Staffordshire Figure

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