How should I clean a white porcelain statue?

Dust unglazed biscuit and Parian surfaces gently with a soft, dry brush to prevent dirt settling into the porous texture. Glazed porcelain can be cleaned with a damp cloth and mild soap. Avoid harsh chemical cleaners or submerging antique pieces, particularly those with applied elements or delicate floral garlands.

How do I identify an 18th-century figure?

Early figures from factories like Derby or Bow often show unglazed patch marks on the base where they rested in the kiln. The ceramic body tends to feel softer or show subtle imperfections reflecting period hand-modelling techniques. Under magnification, the glaze and paste structure reveal the specific firing characteristics of early European kilns before industrial standardisation.

Where were these figures displayed historically?

Sculptural figures adorned neoclassical drawing rooms, mantelpieces, and cabinet displays in elite homes. They served as conversation pieces that demonstrated the owner's cultural literacy and taste. Large groups and portrait busts were often placed on pedestals or dedicated tables to mimic grand marble statuary on a domestic scale.