rare Parian figure of the Duke Wellington by Samuel Alcock

A Samuel Alcock Parian figure of the seated Duke of Wellington, modelled by Crowquill after the sculpture by Abbott and dated 1852.

The figure shows the Duke with clasped hands and crossed legs in contemplative mood. This figure was manufactured when the Duke of Wellington, hero of Waterloo and former Prime Minister, died. The Alcock mark, including the sculptor’s name, is stamped underneath the piece (see photo).

This figure is illustrated in The Illustrated Guide to Victorian Parian China by Charles and Dorrie Shinn, plate 10.

Height 27 cm (10½“).

Condition: Excellent.

A very fine and rare Parian figure of the Duke Wellington by Samuel Alcock. Taken from the sculpture by George Abbott, the 'Iron Duke' is shown sitting in the House of Lords, his famous cloak draped over his chair. The rectangular plinth bears a coronet and laurel wreath with his monogram. A prototype was exhibited at the Society of Civil Engineers where it was much admired for its excellent likeness. In great condition - no chips, cracks or restoration. Nice to find this early Alcock version (Copeland later produced a similar version), especially in such good order. Beautifully printed on the base with cartouche mark 'Published by Sml. Alcock & Co., June 18 1852, Alfred Crowquill Designavit, G.Abbott sculpsit'.