How do I identify a reproduction?

Look closely at the modelling crispness, paint application and base marks to understand whether a piece is an eighteenth-century original or a nineteenth-century revival. Revival pieces, such as those made by Samson, often bear imitation marks or distinct paste characteristics that reveal their later nineteenth-century French or German origins.

How should I clean my figures?

Dust these delicate ceramic pieces gently with a soft, dry brush to prevent the accumulation of dirt within the intricate folds and applied floral elements. Avoid using water or chemical cleaners, especially on unglazed bisque surfaces and delicate enamel or gilt decorations, which can easily suffer damage.

Why are many figures found in pairs?

Makers frequently produced male and female rural counterparts, such as a shepherd and shepherdess or a boy and milkmaid, to create balanced decorative arrangements. Displaying them together on a mantelpiece or table reflected the classical desire for symmetry in interior decoration.