Miniature in Size but Colossal in Charm Antique Georgian Bisque Porcelain Cat by Rockingham

THE STORY - Oh how can I not agree that this little cat is plain, redundant of any decoration, be it with paint or gilt, but that is the real honest beauty of this little fellow, this is how he came out the kiln, a near perfect example, with no need of decoration to cover up any flaws, that is the beauty of the unglazed biscuit figurine and that is why they are really quite rare. This wonderful little cat measures just 2&1/2" in height and when I saw that face in an Auction Catalogue I knew I wanted him. He is from The Rockingham Factory in England and would date to 1826 - 1830 as apparently this is the only time Rockingham made Animal Figurines. And yes this little guy may have come out of the kiln perfectly but a long life of nearly 200 years has left some scars on him and that is with his ears both of which have suffered chips/nibbles as well as a repair to a front leg which I hope you can see from the photographs. But for me that doesn't detract from his beauty, that face, is just astonishing the fineness of the impressed lines marking the features, the moulding of the under jaw so the upper jaw just slightly overhangs is perfect, never failing to make me smile. And the modelling of the body of the cat as it sits on its tasselled square cushion would I think be identifiable to any cat owner, posed as if awaiting an Artist to acknowledge their beauty. And then there is the cushion itself with the tassels on the base so fine and so clean, I can honestly see why the undecorated unhidden honesty is so valued.

AGE - 1826 - 1830

CONDITION - As I have already mentioned about this little chap is not in perfect condition with the nibbles/chips to both his ears although it is much smaller and less noticeable in one ear, (which I hope you are able to see from the photos and the break and repair to his near front leg (best seen in the 9th photo), the repair is cleanly done, but is obviously noticeable. But otherwise I would say he is in wonderful condition with still a cleaness to the biscuit porcelain.

DIMENSIONS (Approx) - Height 2&1/2" / 6.5cm / Width 1&1/2" / 4cm, Depth 1&1/2" / 4cm

I find it incredible to think that this little guy is nearly two hundred years old and of course I wonder about his original owner and just how much pleasure purchasing him must have brought them. And he was clearly loved and that love has lasted over many generations and no doubt experienced by one or two new buyers, that's three if you count me. And I also thank this little chap for making me appreciate the reason why biscuit fired figurines can be valued so highly, it seems so obvious now I know but sometimes we just need a little help. This chap came out of the kiln a winner chosen over many others to be free from paint or gilt. His honest beauty was recognised then and it still is by me.