Victorian Staffordshire Dalmatian Figure

England, mid–late 19th century

A genuine Victorian Staffordshire Dalmatian figure dating to the mid–late 19th century, modelled in the traditional standing pose and decorated with hand-painted black spotting over a cream ground.

Unlike later revival examples, this piece shows the classic features of period Staffordshire production — a slightly irregular, hand-modelled form, underglaze painting, and a simple flat base with vent hole typical of 19th-century firing methods. The naturalistic base and integral support reflect the practical construction used by Staffordshire potteries to stabilise taller figures during firing.

These charming animal figures were produced for domestic display on mantels and sideboards and remain among the most recognisable forms of Victorian decorative ceramics.

Details

• Origin: Staffordshire, England

• Date: c.1860–1880

• Material: Lead-glazed earthenware

• Height: approx. 17–18 cm

• Length: approx. 20 cm

• Condition: Good antique condition with expected age-related wear and glaze variation consistent with 19th-century manufacture.