How do I clean antique porcelain sculptures?

Dust figures gently with a soft, dry brush to prevent the accumulation of dirt in crevices and around delicate applied elements like bocage. Avoid using water, chemical cleaners or abrasive cloths, as these can damage fragile enamel work or aged gilt highlights.

How can I tell eighteenth-century figures from later copies?

Examine the unglazed footrim for wear patterns, firing stilt marks and the texture of the porcelain body under magnification. Eigteenth-century pieces often exhibit softer glaze pooling and hand-mixed enamel palettes that differ from nineteenth-century revival or Samson reproductions.

What does bocage mean on a figure?

Bocage refers to the leafy tree background constructed around pastoral or mythological figures to create a sense of a natural setting. Because these delicate foliage elements are prone to chipping during firing or handling, their preservation significantly affects the integrity of the piece.

Are bisque figures different from glazed porcelain?

Bisque porcelain is left completely unglazed after firing, resulting in a matte, tactile surface that highlights sculptural form and minute anatomical detail. Glazed porcelain receives a glassy coating that seals the body and creates a shiny reflective surface suited to bright enamel colours.