Victorian Staffordshire Figure The Grapplers - circa 1862
Yes it is the Stunning Staffordshire figure, The Grapplers,
based on the statue modelled by J.P.Molin,
which was exhibited at the International Exhibition London in 1862.
The source for our Potters almost certainly
an engraving of this group which appeared in
The London Illustrated News.
The bronze statue now stands in front of the National Museum, Stockholm.
Traditionally in Scandanavian Countries,
Grappling was an ancient form of combat where the contestants
fought to the death with knives and were tied together by the waist.
This really is one of the iconic Victorian Staffordshire Figures.
Fantastically modelled, a real work of art.
P.D.Gordon Pugh writes that a record price of £350
was paid for an example of this figure at Christies in 1969.
Regular followers of this website will know how much I admire
the views of this author, but for once I have to disagree;
Pugh describes this as "average" rarity -
until I found this example,
the only other in unrestored condition I have seen was at
The NEC Antiques Fair in the 1990's.
Which is why I had get this wonderful example.
Striking and beautifully, but subtley, painted.
It is in excellent condition with no restoration.
Height: 11.5 inches
I am always looking for fine quality Staffordshire Figures.